At some point in the last few months, I became particularly enamored with the pure joy expressed in Mary’s beautiful prayer, the Magnificat. Honestly, finding that enduring joy that God wants for us, the kind that lasts even through tragedies and struggles, is one of the best things we can enjoy as we grow in faith. The Magnificat is a wonderful example of that joy.
In fact, the entire scene of Elizabeth and Mary greeting one another is an uplifting moment for us. Let’s first recall Elizabeth’s words to Mary:
“Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” (Luke 1:42-45)
quotation found here
I have always wondered how Elizabeth understood the magnitude of Mary’s role in salvation history, and I marvel at the miraculous response by John the Baptist, still in utero! For those of us who grew up in the faith, it is easy for these profound truths to become routine because we have heard them so many times.
But seriously, can you just imagine the emotions in this visit? Take a moment to experience the Magnificat as if you have never heard it before. Allow yourself to truly appreciate this moment when Mary shares what might be the most beautiful prayer in human history:
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord;
my spirit rejoices in God my savior.
For he has looked upon his handmaid’s lowliness;
behold, from now on will all ages call me blessed.
The Mighty One has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
His mercy is from age to age
to those who fear him.
He has shown might with his arm,
dispersed the arrogant of mind and heart.
He has thrown down the rulers from their thrones
but lifted up the lowly.
The hungry he has filled with good things;
the rich he has sent away empty.
He has helped Israel his servant,
remembering his mercy,
according to his promise to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.” (Luke 1:46-55)
quotation found here
A few weeks ago, I saved Mary’s Magnificat prayer in my prayer journal, and I read it every morning before I start my day. I have been thinking that maybe we could take some time together and contemplate her beautiful words of praise. So, I am going to share a new post every Sunday where we can focus on one line of the Magnificat at a time. I hope you will join me on this journey with our Blessed Mother to try to share in her joy.