5 Reflections on Mary's Song for AdventSample

There’s a second Cinderella character in Mary’s song: you. If you’re a Christian, Mary sings of your rags-to-riches story. Mary speaks of God’s people as “humble” in Luke 1:52. It’s the same language that she used to describe herself earlier in the chapter (verse 48). The song moves from her experience to our experience. What God has done for Mary is what God is going to do for all his people—including you.

As well as being inspired by the Holy Spirit, Mary’s song is also shaped by holy Scripture. The Magnificat is informed by the stories of the mothers of Israel, like Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, and Elizabeth—all of them barren women who were gifted a child after a long period of infertility. At key moments in the story, God has fulfilled his purposes through barren women. It’s his gentle way of reminding us that his plans don’t rely on human power. With the incarnation of Immanuel, he goes one better: now he fulfils his purposes through a virgin.

A day is coming when this world will be turned upside down. Wealth, celebrity, and power will all count for nothing. Corrupt rulers will be toppled, and the arrogant thoughts of those who defend them will be exposed. God is pictured as a mighty warrior marching into battle against oppression (Luke 1:51).

Not every wealthy or powerful person will be excluded from God’s kingdom, just as not every poor person will be included. The reversals of verses 51-53 are introduced by this phrase: “His mercy extends to those who fear him” (verse 50)—that is, those who humble themselves before God, whether rich or poor. Nevertheless, one day the fundamental structures of this world will be transformed.

Use the Magnificat to reflect:

He has mercy on those who fear him,

from generation to generation.

He has shown strength with his arm

and has scattered the proud in their conceit,

Casting down the mighty from their thrones

and lifting up the lowly.

He has filled the hungry with good things

and sent the rich away empty.