As we start our deep dive into the Magnificat, let’s consider the Blessed Mother’s first words to Elizabeth. Mary begins with a song of praise, thus revealing her natural demeanor, which brings her such joy. The rest of the prayer essentially illustrates this wonderful thought:
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior.” (Luke 1:46-47)
quotation found here
Okay, if you’re at all like me, I’m guessing you just read that the way we have heard it at mass for our whole lives. I know the readings at mass are meant to be shared with reverence for the solemn nature of Sacred Scripture. At the same time, do you ever consider what it would sound like to hear the full emotion of each passage?
I want you to imagine how Mary’s voice might have sounded when she first spoke these words. I know we have an impression of Mary that includes a very reserved temperament. Certainly, what we know about Mary suggests someone who is calm under even extreme pressure, showing grace and poise in the most inconceivable circumstances. However, at this joyous and intimate moment with Elizabeth, we would surely hear some kind of excitement in her voice. There might even be tears of joy in her eyes.
Unfortunately, Luke doesn’t place this event in relationship to the reaction of Joseph. There is probably some biblical scholar somewhere who could answer this question, but I’m not entirely certain if Mary had yet settled matters with Joseph at this point or if she went straight to Elizabeth after the announcement from the Angel Gabriel. Either way, this pregnancy can’t be something that she could discuss with many people. In fact, this might be the first time anyone appreciated what Mary was experiencing.
Now, I want you to go back and read that line again, but this time, really think about the emotional release in these words. What does it sound like to proclaim greatness and to rejoice in that moment?
While we’re at it, can I be completely honest right now? I like to tell myself that I have a pretty strong faith, but I can’t imagine my first words would have been praise. Finally faced with someone who knows what’s going on, I’m afraid I might have started with a little venting. I might have had tears of fear, complaints about the struggles of pregnancy, in general, and concerns about how I would be able to live up to this monumental responsibility.
And that is what sets Mary apart from the rest of us. Yes, she is fully human, like us, but her fortitude in the face of this monumentally difficult situation is remarkable. Her faith allows her to praise God above all else.
What if we could learn from Mary’s example? The next time I am afraid, can I turn my heart and soul to praise instead of fear? When I am about to recount the details of a really bad day to my husband, could I possibly pause, first, to praise God for the many blessings in my life? If I did, what would the story of my day become?
So, I guess I’m throwing out that challenge to everyone. Let’s try to find the strength of faith to praise God before all else. I imagine we will all become more joyful people!!