“And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed'” Luke 1:46-48
December 19, 2023
This is a moment that calls for a holy hush. We are listening to Mary, the mother of Jesus, as she replies to the congratulatory words of Elizabeth. This (Lk. 1:46-56) is often called “the Magnificat,” from the first word of the Latin translation. Bach’s music has set these words apart for singular attention to fifteen quotes from the Old Testament. This young teenage girl offers praises to God for His provision of a Savior. Bach uses two sopranos to carry these words. Mary knew she was a sinner who needed God’s saving grace in the Savior she would be carrying in her womb. Notice the pronoun “my” Savior. Mindful of her lowly social status, she is honored because of her son. The chorus comes in with the words “all generations.” Then comes a stretto where voices pile in on one another. This is beautiful as it brings glorious emphasis to the truth that it is Jesus who will save His people from their sins. Is not your heart lifted by the deliverance from the bondage/guilt of sin and the enjoyment of fellowship with God? We need a Savior. Our only hope is God’s grace. Mary would be embarrassed, at the least, by those who seek to make her a mediatrix (a woman mediator) and object of veneration. May the praise of Mary to the greatness of God echo through our minds this Christmas season.
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A Jewish mother and a Jewish son, God has blessed us by His promise to Abraham, “and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing.” Genesis 12:2