My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour (Lk 1:46–47).
One of the most blessed moments in worship for me is singing “Tell out my Soul”, a hymn inspired by Mary’s song (the “Magnificat”, Luke 1:46-55), with our 08:00 congregation[1]. Singing Mary’s words makes their blessed truth alive and real for us in a way that speaking them doesn’t. We sense the Good News – the Kingdom of God is near! World history will not be directed from the thrones of the powerful (:52). Even those who experience the worst living conditions will know God’s love and mercy (:53).
Surely the infant Jesus was lovingly fed this song along with his mother’s milk. For we can hear it in Jesus’ first sermon: “(H)e has anointed me to bring good news to the poor” (Lk 4:18). Mary’s song is also there in his most famous sermon: “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God, Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled (Lk 6:20).
May we enter into Christmas and the New Year as those who are blessed. Blessed by the assurance of God’s presence through sickness, grief and financial woes. Blessed to be loving bearers of hope, peace and joy to all who suffer.
God Bless, Sean
[1] You can listen to it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6ji4y9Q-K0