‘And Mary said, My soul magnifies the Lord…’ (Luke 1:46).
Read Luke 1:45-55 again slowly.
God wants to be there where people need Him. Is Christmas being celebrated very elaborately in your area? Or is it hard for you to speak about Jesus publicly? God comes with His love across the thresholds of our loneliness, limitedness, doubts, despondency, insecurity and guilt. Wherever you live, God also crosses the thresholds of those who think they can exercise unchecked power over others. They will eventually stand powerless, utterly destitute, empty-handed.
Mary’s song has become known as the Magnificat; it means magnify, enlarge. Of course, our words cannot make God greater than He already is. It means that we should not make ourselves so big that there is no more room left for God. To magnify God is to have the courage to rid ourselves of pride and self-importance, then room is made in which God can do His work in us. He will fill our lives with His merciful presence. Mary was the first to sing this song. Over the centuries millions of voices have joined hers, that way we have the opportunity to give voice to our own longing. That helps us to keep trusting that God fulfills His promises!
I’ll praise in the valley, praise on the mountain.
I’ll praise when I’m sure, praise when I’m doubting.
I’ll praise when outnumbered, praise when surrounded.
‘Cause praise is the waters my enemies drown in.
Praise the Lord….
(Brandon Lake)