He Shall ReignSample

When we read about Mary, we need to look at the historical context to help us better understand her situation. First, she was most likely quite young at the time she had Jesus, maybe about sixteen. She was incredibly brave and faithful for someone so young. Second, it’s also important to remember that Mary would have an understanding of struggle and oppression. Israel hadn’t heard from a prophet in several generations and, historically, they were a people that had been oppressed by multiple different nations (with Rome being the latest). 

Mary’s song of praise was declaring what God had done and was still to do through her Son. This young woman saw through the smoke of the politics and culture around her to behold what God was doing. Worship and faith should never be based on our circumstances, but on who God is and what He has said He will do.

Do you recognize what God is doing in your life? The promise fulfilled in Mary’s lifetime lives in you. It could be easy to sit back and admire Mary for her courage and worship, but we’re missing out on a valuable lesson if we don’t follow her example and honor God for his steadfast love right where we are. He is still forgiving, His Word still stands, He still humbles the proud, and He lifts up the humble. 

APPLICATION: 

Read this section from Mary’s song of praise and then pray it aloud:

“‘For the Mighty One has done great things for me - holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful”. (‭‭Luke‬ ‭1:49-54‬)

Write down three ways you’ve seen Salvation at work in your life, and thank God for them. Consider it your own “song of praise!” 

And lastly, for some extra reading, download the Logos app or visit blueletterbible.org to find tools to help you learn historical context and how the Bible was translated from its original language.