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Read: Luke 1:46-55
“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.
Luke 1: 46b-49
The Sunday of Love is here and today we read the Magnificat – Mary’s song. Mary’s story is astounding to me, and it shakes me to my core each time I read it. Imagine being an unmarried teenager who encounters an angel who tells you that you will conceive and give birth to God’s son. Really?? And, how do you have a conversation with Joseph and your parents following that announcement? In this passage, Mary is confident about her role in the task that lies ahead. Allowing her body to be used in this way is an act of worship for Mary.
But what questions and fears are in her mind and heart? Women who have given birth are generally not shy to share their birth story with someone who is pregnant. I imagine that Mary had heard lots of women in her community talk about childbirth. Childbirth at any point in history poses risks for mothers and babies, but think about what challenges Mary would face? Let me remind you . . .natural childbirth in a stable with only Joseph to help with the delivery. Understanding what was likely ahead, Mary still praises God and tells us that God has favored her and done great things for her. I think it is Mary’s love for God and love for the baby boy growing inside her which inspires her to reach past her questions and fears for faith.
We each have our own questions and fears during Advent. My prayer is that Mary’s story will remind you that faith in God can sustain you through whatever you are facing. May God’s love encircle you today.
~Leah Brown
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