Overwhelmed by the Magnificent God
In a pivotal moment in history, Mary is found singing praise to the Lord. Her life is about to radically change; she is a pregnant virgin, yet all she can do is worship God’s character and what He has done in her life and throughout history.
In this passage, Mary uses the phrase “He has” eight times while recounting what God has done for three groups of people. The first is Mary, the second is us, and the third is Israel.
Instead of making her unexpected pregnancy about herself, Mary praises: “He who is mighty and has done great things for me” (Luke 1:49). Mary acknowledges her “humble estate” in comparison to God’s holiness. She knows that getting to be a servant in the fulfillment of God’s promise is a joyous occasion.
Mary also praises what God has done for us as she named all those “who fear Him from generation to generation” (Luke 1:50). We are all recipients of God’s mercy if we fear Him. In verses 52-53, Mary specifically praises God’s mercy to the helpless, the humble, and the hungry.
Finally, Mary praises what God has done for Israel. Mary mentions the promise God made to her ancestors which is about to be fulfilled through the person of Jesus Christ, the very child she is carrying in her womb. Israel has broken the covenant countless times over the years, yet God is holding up His end of the bargain. It is indeed true, “if we are faithless, He remains faithful” (2 Timothy 2:13).
Mary has hidden the Word in her heart and that is evident in this song of praise. Not only has she taken the time to memorize and understand God’s Word, but she believes it. Someone who has truly understood their humble estate and is overwhelmed by the magnificent God can magnify the Lord with their soul.
Macey Castro, Tallowood Agape / Youth Ministry Volunteer
