The Joy of Hope

Luke 1:46-55, often called The Magnificat, (NASB)

46 And Mary said:
“My soul exalts the Lord,

47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.

48 For He has had regard for the humble state of His bond-servant;
For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed.

49 For the Mighty One has done great things for me;
And holy is His name.

50 And His mercy is to generation after generation
Toward those who fear Him.

51 He has done mighty deeds with His arm;
He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their hearts.

52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones,
And has exalted those who were humble.

53 He has filled the hungry with good things,
And sent the rich away empty-handed.

54 He has given help to His servant Israel,
In remembrance of His mercy,

55 Just as He spoke to our fathers,
To Abraham and his descendants forever.”

Let me know if you'd like further insights on this beautiful passage of praise!

REFLECTION

Mary was a virgin, blessed by the Lord, and before her marriage to Joseph, she was found to be pregnant. Joseph, wanting to leave her quietly, reconsidered after receiving guidance from the angel Gabriel and accepted her as his wife. During that time, when Mary visited Elizabeth, she sang a beautiful song, exalting God for His promise of mercy.

Mary found herself in a very challenging and awkward situation—one that, even today, would be difficult for society, churches, or even Christian families to accept. A virgin becoming pregnant would defy explanation and invite judgment. Yet, Mary was filled with joy because she knew she was carrying the Messiah. She was fully convinced that her pregnancy was from the Lord, and she considered it a great privilege to be the mother of the Saviour of the world.

Her joy flowed from her faith in God's character, His mighty power, and His promise to send a Saviour to redeem His people. Mary rejoiced not in her circumstances but in the faithfulness of God and His plan of salvation for all.

PRAYER

Heavenly father, thank you so much for sending your Son Jesus Christ to this earth that we will be saved. Amen.

Written by Pranab Kishor Kumar (India) is a NAMS Companion and a member of the Missional Base of Asia.