Luke 1:46-49 – And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me – holy is his name.”
Mary’s Song, known as Mary’s Magnificat, begins with her gratitude for being chosen as the soon-to-be mother of the long-predicted Messiah. In spite of the dangers her pregnancy presented as an unwed mother, her tribute to God contains nothing but joyful anticipation and prophetic praise for God’s unending care and mercy. I’ve often heard that Mary was most likely around 15 when she received her visit from the angel Gabriel. For her diligence and faith, she was “highly favored” by God, as Gabriel put it. One can be sure that Mary’s simple life never would have foreshadowed her designation as “mother” to God’s son. She was just another poor girl from Nazareth, one of many! Her outstanding attribute, though, was a heart for God.
Prior to Gabriel’s visit, Mary knew her purpose in life – to marry and produce children, preferably sons! How quickly her life changed after the angel Gabriel announced her pregnancy! Mary’s new purpose in life was thrust upon her. It was not something she chose! How often in life are we thrust into circumstances that we never anticipated? Mary knew radiant joy in the passage noted above, but she also knew great loss in the years to come. Mary lost her husband Joseph at some time prior to Jesus’ death. She witnessed the horrific crucifixion of her son and lived to see the early persecution of the church. Her historical life was not an easy one!
In my own faith journey, I have come to truly believe in spiritual callings. Oftentimes, those called also suffer great loss! I think of recent “greats” within my own lifetime who felt called to a driving purpose, a mission. A favorite of mine is Martin Luther King, Jr. who felt called to preach, and then to speak out peacefully against segregation. His life is honored today and his legacy continues, but I think it’s important to remember the sacrifice and suffering that went along with his calling. Perhaps you have an individual in mind who is your own personal hero, someone who answered God’s call and made our world a better place by their courageous sacrifice. Today we honor Mary, for her joyful acceptance of the purpose God gave her and for her courage in living out her calling.
Dear Lord, we each have a purpose – a calling of our own ordained by you. May we be ever so faithful in that purpose, recognizing its challenges but also the pure joy that goes along with purposeful ministry. Give us courage in the challenge – and joy in the journey!
Blessings,
Diana
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