Advent Devotional

Luke 1:39-56

And Mary said: my soul magnifies the Lord… (v. 46-47)

Praise God.
What is the pinnacle of the Advent and Christmas season celebration?

Some of us may say it has to do with family traditions or with participating in special projects or trips. It may be gathering with family or friends separated by distance and circumstances.

As we move toward December 25 there is a real quickening of the pace of life and celebration . Mary sings out – My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.

Mary’s song, called the Magnificat, is an ancient Christian chant. It links the themes of the coming Savior to those found in the Old Testament as its sounds were much like the Song of Hannah (1 Samuel 2) in the Old Testament.

I am reminded of two things when I come to Mary’s Magnificat. First, I am reminded of how important music is to celebrate this season and all parts of our faith life. And then, I am reminded that the birth of the Savior changes things up. God’s love helps re-order the world.

And that is why we sing: God’s love is so great that it s the occasion to sing and find joy. And it is the opportunity to know that all that is wrong will be made right.

PRAYER: Wonderful God, help us sing with the joy of Mary. Let us share the song of joy and hope that the wrong way things are will not always be. The power that rises from your grace and love will bring joy to the world. Amen.

Joel Alvis