Readings: Luke 1:46b-55; 2 Samuel 7:18, 23-29; Galatians 3:6-14

And Mary said,

My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.

Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.

He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.

He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.

He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever.” Luke1:46b-55

Bringing life into the world to save all that is, was, and ever will be is a matter for pure joy. Before the planning, the uncertainty, the aches and road trip, before shepherds and angels, Mary sings her elation – offering Hannah’s words of thanksgiving and a few all her own.

For the life we were given through Mary’s profound yes.

For the life we are given this day.

For the holiness of it all – good, bad, and everything in between – we give thanks.

Magnify the Lord, O my soul.

Words by Johnna Fredrickson and Image by Margaret Hill, children of God.