LOVE: Mary’s song

Summary

The STORY | Luke 1:26-45

A young woman, a small town, an angelic visit, and a song. Mary was pledged to be married to a local carpenter in a forgotten rural town. Visited by an angel, she is told despite contrary circumstances she is “favored by God.” Furthermore, she will conceive a son who will be “Son of the Most High” and have a “kingdom with no end.” Mary, apparently knowing how babies are made, is rightly confused because she is a virgin. More than unlikely, this conception will be miraculous. This child will be born of a woman (fully man) but conceived by the Holy Spirit (fully God). His name is to be Jesus. The angel also informs Mary that her aunt Elizabeth has a near impossible pregnancy. Mary, humbled by God’s call on her life, is obedient to His will. Traveling to her elder relative, she is greeted with an ecstatic prophetic blessing.

The SONG | Luke 1:46-55

The Creator moving in the life of a person is a powerful creative inspiration. Mary’s response to all God has said and done is a poetic song praising three characteristics of God:

God is Mindful: He knows the lowly and He loves the lowly. God is intentional about how he engages with His people and each individual person. He is not random or impersonal, but remembers his promises.

God is Mighty: It is one thing to know a people or a person, but you need power to effect change. He is strong and able to do “great things” for His people and glory. He reorients the whole world, exalting the humble, feeding the hungry, while the rich and proud are brought low.

God is Merciful: While the just wages of sin is eventual death and wrath, God’s intentionality and power are directed by His goodness. Mercy, removing affliction, is available for His people who respect and fear Him. While there is sin in the world, our God “sings” mercy.