How do you picture Jesus? A baby in the manger? Crucified on the cross? Absent from the tomb? Dwelling in your heart?
How do you think Mary pictured Jesus?
We know that Mary treasured all these things in her heart as Jesus grew in wisdom, in stature, and in favor with God and men.
When Mary saw Jesus turn the water to wine in Cana, did she see him as the Christ, or as the little boy who ate and drank from her table?
When Jesus healed the sick, did she think back to the times when his brothers and sisters were sick at home?
We see Mary appear at various times during Jesus’ ministry. She seems to be a dedicated follower, but I wonder how much she knew about the child she had carried in her womb.
A recent reflection on the account in Luke 1 and her song of praise provided me with a new perspective—one that affirms why she was chosen to carry the Christ child.
When the angel first appeared to Zechariah, he responds with doubt, “How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years” (Luke 1:18). However Mary’s response, while one of surprise, questions the angel with a different spirit, “How can this be?” She doesn’t ask whether or not it is possible. She does not respond with doubt, but with belief and a request for clarification.
Then, her response immediately transitions to one of submission—humble acceptance of what God has called her to.
If I were Mary, I would’ve had a million questions: What if Joseph won’t marry me? What if others don’t believe me and I am stoned? Why me? How can I be sure? You’ve been silent for 400 years…
Yet she did not respond in any of those ways. How did she respond? In praise.
Luke 1:46-55 is the text of her song and prayer in praise.
Do you know what Magnificat means? “My soul glorifies or magnifies the Lord.” Magnifies: makes bigger (like a magnifying glass). Mary recognizes immediately that it is not about her. It’s all about God. She is only a vessel.
In her prayerful song, Mary thanks God and praises his name, recognizing his character and his actions. That’s it.
If that had been my song, I would’ve included some requests—that is most often the focus of my prayers.
Today, as I think of Jesus’ initial entry into the world, I am inspired by Mary’s example of humble submission, and of praise. No doubts. No requests. No self-glorification. My soul magnifies the Lord.
How can your life be a magnificat today?