As we start into the Advent season, we begin by reminding ourselves of Mary’s song – the song that she sang when she first heard that she was to give birth to Jesus.
Mary reflected back on all the hopes of the previous generations of Israel that had been realised, and also looked forward to the hope that her son, Jesus, would bring to the world in the future, in Luke 1:46-55.
My soul glorifies the Lord
and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,
for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
for the Mighty One has done great things for me –
holy is his name.
His mercy extends to those who fear him,
from generation to generation.
He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
to Abraham and his descendants for ever,
just as he promised our ancestors.
And so let us too look back on all that God has done for us over the years, and also look forward with hope for the future, as we begin to remember the birth of Jesus this Christmas.
(Written by Phil Maylor)
