Journey Into the Light - December 24 - Mary's Song

        On occasion there come those precious moments when we recognize in wonder that our hearts are full. We have gazed upon the face of Jesus, we have seen his glory manifest in our lives, we have experienced the beauty of his presence, and we know the fullness of joy. When we come face to face with the mercy and grace of God all we can do is fall on our knees in gratitude and give all glory to God. When our lives are touched by Divine tenderness, when we are given a deeper understanding of God's personal love for us - not just his love for the world at large, but a staggering, heart-pounding realization of God's delight in us, we can't help but glorify the Lord. From the depths of our being, out of God's abundant blessings, our hearts cry out in praise, in worship, in thanksgiving, and in honor of him who has chosen to enter into our life, our hearts, our need, and has done above and beyond what we could ever ask or imagine. When we see his miraculous provision for us, his timely intervention, and his powerful hand working on our behalf, our souls are lifted up, and we can't help but marvel at his goodness. The Mighty One has indeed done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.
        Mary, too, experienced the wonder of God's glory, and her heart was filled to overflowing. She was overwhelmed by the greatness of her God and all that he had done for her, and she was overcome by the Spirit. Out of the fullness of her heart poured forth a song of praise and worship, a song rejoicing in the mercy, provision, and might of her God and Savior. Her words can be our words. Her song can be our song. Let's allow the Spirit to overwhelm us with the beauty of our Savior and all that he has done for us.

Mary's Song

"My soul glorifies the Lord

and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

for he has been mindful 

of the humble state of his servant.

From now on all generations will call me blessed,

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

to Abraham and his descendants forever,

even as he said to our fathers."