The Song of Mary

Luke 1:46-55

In our last study, we saw the incarnation as the beginning of the end for evil. When the God Who cannot be tempted with evil entered into the human race, our salvation was inevitable. The birth of Christ takes on a new dimension of finality when it is viewed in this way. Although Mary and Elizabeth had more questions than answers, they still recognized the finality in these events. Mary’s presence intensified Elizabeth’s joy. Elizabeth’s greeting removed much of Mary’s fear and doubt.

We saw the faith of Mary move from total surrender at the announcement of the angel Gabriel, “Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; be it done to me according to your word” [Lk. 1:38], to an immediate investigative mode with her travel to visit Elizabeth and then to a second release in her song of praise. This song, called the “Magnificat” from the first word of the verse in the Vulgate, reveals much about the mind of Mary.

Her spontaneous response is loaded with references to the Old Testament. She is very familiar with the Scriptures. Her joy is less superstitious than it is soundly biblical. She gives us a wonderful rendering of praise to the God of redemption. She comes to confirm her condition with the pregnancy of Elizabeth. She receives unmatched praise from Elizabeth as being blessed above all other women. The final result, however, is as it should be … praise to the God Who alone governs the events of history.

The song that Mary sings is taken in part from Hannah’s song in the Old Testament. While there are similarities in the two women’s circumstances, they are at the same time vastly different. Hannah receives the news of a child when she is older; Mary is very young. While Hannah’s pregnancy is indeed a shock and a surprise, it does not even come close to the miracle in Mary’s womb. Hannah’s song draws our attention to her and the graciousness of her God, whereas Mary’s song leaves us ready to worship her Son. Hannah’s song is original and solely instigated by her joy and release from barrenness. Mary’s, on the other hand, comes with an Old Testament survey and a feeling of finality with regard to sin’s grip on man.

Usually at Christmas, we spend a great deal of time wrapping our minds around the manger and the shepherds and the wise men; but there is much to be gained by looking at the events immediately leading up to the miraculous birth. To common people doing their everyday tasks, God brings a sudden transformation in their immediate future, and when we surrender our life to Christ, He transforms our future just as quickly.

The Song of Mary

Luke 1:46-55

Elevation

Psalm 34:2

Distance

Psalm 138:6

Endurance

Psalm 103:17

Strength

Psalm 98:1

Control

Psalm 107:9

Reliability

Psalm 132:11