Our scripture this week is Luke 1:46-55, taken today from the New American Standard Bible (NASB).
And Mary said: “My soul exalts the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has had regard for the humble state of His bondslave; For behold, from this time on all generations will count me blessed. For the Mighty One has done great things for me; And holy is His name. And His mercy is upon generation after generation Toward those who fear Him. He has done mighty deeds with His arm; He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their heart. He has brought down rulers from their thrones, And has exalted those who were humble. He has filled the hungry with good things; And sent away the rich empty-handed. He has given help to Israel His servant, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and his descendants forever.”
Mary’s song of praise has several lessons for us, all of which speak of God’s love and glory, but also our relationship with Him. She says “He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their heart” (v. 51) to tell us that we have accomplished nothing in our own strength, but only through God’s help. The sin of pride in what we have and do is one of our biggest stumbling blocks.
Often we see people who are not giving God the credit for success, and on the other end of the scale not asking for help when needed. Sometimes “they” are us. We must thank Him when we prosper and call on Him when we are in trouble.
God wants to provide and care for us but we must be in connection with Him for that to happen. Without a relationship we wander lost and alone. God’s love is always waiting for us to say “yes, Lord” and accept the grace and mercy He has in store for us.
Wise and wonderful God, we are thankful for Your many blessings. Help us to show our gratitude by sharing Your love with all the world. Amen.