A meditation on Luke 1:46-55.
When Jesus was born, many of the ordinary people of the world were suffering from political oppression, poverty, violence, sickness and probably the effects of natural disasters just as today. We bring the suffering of today’s world before God as we reflect on Mary’s visionary song of praise.
And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour.’
Holy God, we adore you. For you are all-powerful and all-knowing and yet you look with tenderness on your children. You bless those who are obedient to your call. Your Son is our friend and Saviour, your Spirit is our protector and guide. Our spirit sings with joy in your presence.
‘for the mighty one has done great things for me.’
We are blessed because you are a generous God, who showers good gifts on your children. We trust you to provide for us and we discover you in unexpected moments. You give us opportunities for service, experiences that deepen our faith, exposure to your living presence in one another. Our hands are open to receive from you.
‘his mercy is for those who fear him.’
You offer us forgiveness when we turn to you in penitence. When we fail to obey your rule of love, you always give us another chance. Nothing can separate us from your loving-kindness. Your love and patience is more than we deserve. Our hearts respond to you in devotion.
‘he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.’
You delight in a humble disciple. You despise the proud who think too highly of themselves. They will be cast down and their power removed from them. You raise up those who are oppressed. When we trust in you, there is hope. We rely on your strength and justice.
‘he has filled the hungry with good things.’
You have provided a world where there is more than enough for everyone. Yet so many suffer from hunger and thirst; so many are sick or homeless. The poor are sustained by faith; the rich realise their poverty of spirit. You are teaching us how to share so that all may know your goodness. We are hungry for justice for all people.
‘in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors’
You have promised us that you will always be with us; that you will strengthen the weary and lift up those who are downhearted; that you will guide us in the ways of peace, and give everlasting life to those who trust in you. We are yours and you are our Lord and Saviour. Be born afresh in our hearts today.
Amen.
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