46 And Mary said:
“My soul glorifies the Lord
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.
50 His mercy extends to those who fear him,
from generation to generation.
51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
54 He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
55 to Abraham and his descendants forever,
just as he promised our ancestors.”
56 Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home.
Mary celebrates the news she has heard from Gabriel by singing a song of praise! In her song, Mary worships God for keeping his promises to his people by sending the Messiah to the world.
Question 1
In what way does Mary describe God in these verses?
Question 2
In one word, describe this song. Why did you choose that word?
Read 1 Samuel 2:1-10 where Hanna also sings a song. God gave Hanna a baby after a long period of not being able to have children.
Question 3
What’s similar and different between the two songs?
Question 4
Why does Mary use Hannah’s words here?
Pray:
Thank you, Lord, that you have kept your promises by sending Jesus into the world. Help us to experience the same joy that Mary had at the thought of the birth of Jesus Christ.
