Finding Purpose, Hope and Joy Through Jesus’ BirthSample

Day 17 – Mary’s Joy

Mary’s joy is expressed in this passage which is often called the “Song of Mary” or the “Magnificat.” The passage records Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s blessing. We don’t know if Mary actually sang it, but it does express her joy.

As a poor girl who will become the mother of the Messiah, Mary is praising God for His amazing blessing. She gives examples of times when the humbled are exalted and the proud are humbled. It is a series of reversals.

Mary’s song included two actions: she gives glory to God and then she rejoices in the presence and actions of God. God had chosen Mary out of a low social situation. Out of her would come the Messiah. She did nothing to deserve this or earn it. God owes her nothing, but she has received everything from Him. For this reason, she calls out praise and glory to God.

Mary’s song is a great reminder to us that social standing means nothing to God. We often hold those with a higher social or financial status with greater respect or maybe even consider them more blessed by God. Mary’s prayer makes it very clear that God honors the poor. Sometimes we might ignore them, but God sees them!

This song has many applications for our lives, but let’s focus on two:

1. Do you see those less fortunate to you? Do you see their hurt? Do you see the joy they are waiting to share?
2. Mary’s joy wasn’t based on what was owed to her. She realized that God owed her nothing. We live in an age of personal rights and privilege, thinking we are owed certain things. Mary understood that her joy was based on God’s character. She gives Him honor and praise.