Advent 2023 Week 1: Mary’s Song is one of deep faith in a God who sees her where she is.
A Quiet Hope
Advent is traditionally celebrated at the beginning of the year, rather than at the end as we currently do.
Mary’s story is one of patient waiting. She is a young, unmarried woman of humble status.
When Mary sings her Song (also known as the Magnificat), you can hear the depth of her faith. Despite uncertainty, she clings to hope. Through her words of worship, she rejoices in God’s nature and her own identity in His eyes.
She understands that God’s blessings extend beyond herself and her people, reaching the entire world.
As we enter this season, let’s take a moment to pause and listen to God. Amidst chaos, let’s focus on the hope found in God’s promises.
Mary's SongLink to this section
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for He has looked with favor on His humble servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed,
the Almighty has done great things for me,
and holy is His Name.
He has mercy on those who fear Him
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm,
He has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones,
and has lifted up the humble.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich He has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of His servant Israel
for He has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise He made to our fathers,
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever.
Amen, Alleluia.”