MY SPIRIT REJOICES IN GOD

Luke 1:39-56 / Keywords 1:46-47

46 And Mary said: "My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

 

Mary Visits Elizabeth

1:39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40 where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! 43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”

Mary’s Song

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.

1. Mary decided to visit her relative Elizabeth. Mary probably had many doubts and worries in her mind as she was on her way. Mary had simply obeyed God’s will for her. But at the same time, she must have felt that there was no one on earth who would empathize with her. She could not guess what Elizabeth’s reaction would be for her pregnancy.

 

2. But as she reached the door, Elizabeth loudly blessed Mary and said, “Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promise to her!” Mary was much encouraged and started to sing a hymn of joy. She sang, “My soul glorifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” She saw God who was helping her through Elizabeth’s encouragement. Mary praised God for reassurance and for his work.

 

3. As we follow God’s leading in life, we sometimes face difficulties and doubts may arise. But God is there each step of the way, giving us reassurance. Mary was greatly encouraged by Elizabeth, and she sang a song of joy and praise. 4. May God continue to bless our journey of following him and may we sing a song of praise and joy to him.

 

Prayer Lord, help us to praise you and sing a song to you since you show us your love each step of our life.

One Word My soul rejoices in God my Savior