Read Luke 1:46-55.
This passage describes Mary’s response to her relative Elizabeth’s greeting when Mary went to visit her after the angel Gabriel informed Mary she would conceive Jesus.
Consider the emotions Mary might’ve been feeling in this instance; she was a teenager who just recently learned through an unbelievable experience that something even more unbelievable would be happening to her. I can’t begin to imagine the fear and uncertainty she would’ve been feeling, but I very much admire the unshakable joy and faith she chooses to focus on. Even though she has entered a period of uncertainty in her life, she is still certain that God will keep His word and fulfill His promises. By singing this song of praise, Mary may even be reminding herself of God’s promises and His goodness in her and her ancestors’ lives. Mary recognizes that God is both mighty and full of love. Her song rises like a candle in the darkness- quiet, steady, and full of wonder. She praises God not because her life is suddenly easy, but because she recognizes the depth of His love. Advent invites us to pause with Mary and listen for that same heartbeat of love in our own waiting.
As someone who is quick to feel fear during uncertain times, I definitely need to regularly remind myself of God’s goodness, faithfulness, and love. During times of uncertainty, I remind myself of how God has expressed His love for me throughout my life. I remember promises He has kept, prayers He has answered, and miracles He has done in my life. And I remind myself of how all of creation exists within His rhythms of grace, and His rhythms of love.
Just like Mary, may we remind ourselves, not only during this Advent season but always, of God’s extraordinary love for us. May we remember that love came near in Jesus, and may we remember that God is still turning the world right-side up with mercy, justice, and love.
Written by Justine Glieger
