“For he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.” Luke 1:49-50
December 20, 2023
The word miracle is thrown about like a nerf ball among first graders at a picnic. It has virtually lost its true meaning. But not so with Mary the mother of the Savior. Her praise of God for what she has been told savors the fragrance of God’s perfections. What He has wrought within her womb is evidence of His power, active omnipotence is what it is, the miracle of the virgin conception. This is not something that can be reproduced in a laboratory. God is able to do His holy will and He does a fine job of it. It is understandable why Bach brings in a bass voice at this point. Have you experienced God’s power in your own life to overcome sin’s nasty habits? Mary is enamored with the sovereign Lord’s holiness. He is absolutely separated from any and all sin and devoted to seeking His own honor. God’s mercy is accompanied by an alto-tenor duet with flutes and muted strings. You must listen to it. God’s mercy is His goodness toward those in misery and distress. Is this not exhilarating? To love God is to fear Him. And to fear Him is to honor Him lovingly by avoiding what is contrary to His will and straining after what pleases Him. Mary’s song is no deafening scream at a rock concert. It makes its audience to tearfully ask, is my God big enough? How am I experiencing His perfections?
H
“Selflessness and serenity are characteristics of a holy person. Perfection is not.” Elisabeth Elliot