Dec 15th, 2021: Lessons from The Song of Mary

 


God has His special way of revealing to us His plan. As we are waiting to celebrate the birth of Jesus during Christmas time, we need to revisit the many unexpected lessons we have received. Let us consider a couple of them concerning Mary at the time of Jesus' birth.

We don't know the time and the circumstances in our life when God will use us to bring about His will. Knowledge is helpful, but having the willingness to embrace what God's revelation to us is far more essential. That was what happened to Mary. Her faith in the will of God is significant in the Christmas story. It was not about why it happened to her. It was about why God had chosen her to bring Jesus into the world.

The more we learn about having faith, the more we feel ill-prepared for what God has in mind in our lives. There was no boasting or deception. Mary showed both humility and commitment as she listened to God's message. Her faith was about what God had in mind for the world. It was not about what He had in mind for her up-and-coming wedding.

She saw herself as a servant of God. She accepted the assignment without asking for any privileges. Her heart was full of gratefulness even though she knew it wouldn't be easy. She seemed to have the quiet confidence that all would be well. True and sincere faith gives birth to peace and tranquility. She rested in the fulfillment of God's plan for the world.

Luke 1: 46-55

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.
His mercy extends to those who fear him,
from generation to generation.
He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
to Abraham and his descendants forever,
just as he promised our ancestors.”

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