The first Christmas carol ever composed rarely appears in a collection of Advent songs. But you will find it in the Bible, Luke chapter one. It’s Mary’s song, shared with her cousin Elizabeth soon after she arrived at the older woman’s home.
Using much scripture, Mary artfully wove this prayer-song to praise God for his work in her life and in the world-at-large, especially now that the Messiah would soon be born.
Mary’s prayer is often referred to as the Magnificat, because in a number of translations it begins, “My soul magnifies the Lord,” as if Mary is holding up a magnifying glass to God’s attributes while she draws attention to each one.
I too have seen God’s attributes at work, and have experienced countless blessings. While contemplating Mary’s song recently, I wondered: could I compose a Magnificat? What follows is the result.
My soul proclaims your greatness, O Lord . . . (Luke 1:46 HCSB)
. . . on display in the wonders of creation, events that defy explanation, and in the transformed lives of people—including my own.
“You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples”[1] as needs are met, disasters avoided, and the way forward provided. You alone are omnipotent, with all resources at your disposal.
My spirit rejoices in God my Savior (v. 47 NIV).
I praise you for saving me from the consequences of my sin through the sacrifice of your Son. Upon my last breath, you will take me to heaven to live with you forever. In that moment I’ll be healed of all ailments and released from all adversity.
Until that day, you gladly save me from worry, fear, discouragement and stress when I trust you and follow your ways. Thank you, dear Father!
You have looked [with loving care] on the humble state of your maidservant (v. 48 AMP).
By the world’s standards I’m a nobody–no wealth, no fame, no power. Little do some know my true status, the daughter of the King of the universe, and the numerous delights I enjoy as a result:
- glorious moments in your presence
- generous gifts not even asked for
- friendships with your other children (augmented by your involvement and influence)
- your frequent intervention in difficult circumstances, as only a powerful King could arrange
From one generation to another you have demonstrated your mercy (v. 50 GNT).
I think of my grandparents, each of whom you sustained and helped through difficulty. I think of my parents who also experienced your faithfulness as they were faithful to you.
And now we can testify of your gracious kindness. You have dealt compassionately, especially in times of distress.
Your mighty power has been on display (v. 51 GWT) . . .
. . . through healings that doctors can’t explain, needs met in miraculous ways, monetary gifts arriving just in time, and moments of desperation turned around in an instant.
“You satisfy the hungry with good things” (v. 53, HCSB).
The list is lavishly long: your undeserved love, comforting presence, inexplicable peace, fullness of joy, heartening encouragement, fulfilling purpose, undying hope, sure promises, abundant provision, generous blessings, wise counsel, abiding strength—to mention a few! “In your giving we have a sea without a shore.”[2]
My God, the King, I exalt you for your glorious attributes,
and will praise your name forever and ever.
Your ways are absolutely holy—no one is like you.
You are the God who performs miracles!
Your power is on display in glorious ways all over the earth,
yet you have chosen to do great things for me and those I love.
My heart is filled with joy!
(Psalm 145:1; 77:13-14; 126:3)
[1] Psalm 77:14
[2] Herbert Lockyer, Seasons of the Lord, 255.
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From the Inside Out 