Scripture Reading: Luke 1:46–55
Reflection
Has God ever called you to do something, and your first thought wasn’t to praise Him for it? More often than not, my first response is to want more details, to know the outcome, or, if I’m honest, I want Him to make it easier… but not Mary. Mary’s reaction to God calling her to be the mother of the Messiah is exactly the response we all should have! This whole passage is her song of praise! If I put myself in Mary’s shoes, I know that would not have been my first response. In the culture of that day, Mary risked being shamed and rejected by her family, her friends, and her fiancé. Mary had to trust the Lord with her reputation and her future.
How often do I look at a calling the Lord has given me and think only of how it might look to others or how hard it will be, instead of thinking about what a blessing it is that He uses a sinner like me to bring Him glory? I’m sure Mary was scared and unsure and full of questions, but she praised her Savior and her God! Mary knew the road ahead would be hard, and yet she still says, “My spirit rejoices in God my Savior!” There is so much joy in following God’s calling on your life, because He is mighty and faithful and all His plans for us are good. My prayer for you as you read today’s passage is that you would be reminded to praise the Lord for the great things He is doing in and through you. Turn your heart to praise Him for the blessing it is that He uses sinners like us to build His kingdom and show the world the love of Jesus.
Reflection Questions
- What is the Lord calling you to right now?
- What is keeping you from following where He is leading?
- How can you or your family find more joy in the everyday places where God has called you?
Application
- Take time this week to thank God for one specific way He is working in your life.
- Journal a prayer of praise modeled after Mary’s Magnificat.
- Identify one area of obedience where fear is holding you back and pray for courage.
Additional Scripture for Deeper Study
- Matthew 1:18–24
- Luke 1:39–45
Family Activity
Make a paper praise chain! Create a chain to hang on your tree or in your home. On each link, write something your family can praise God for. Add a new link each day to celebrate the joy we have in Jesus during this season.