Mary’s Song

And Mary said. “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.”

– Luke 1:46-47 ESV

 This “song” of Mary’s gets its name, Magnificat, from the third word of the first line: magnifies. It can be translated as: to make great; to deem or declare great; to extol, laud and celebrate. Some of these definitions are beyond our capabilities, since we can neither make, deem or declare what is great—especially when it comes to God. But we can celebrate His greatness.

Mary celebrates the Lord with her soul. The next part of Mary that is rejoicing in her Lord is her spirit. Soul and spirit. Is there anything left that is not involved in her worship of The Most High?  No, Mary was completely given over to the LORD.

Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. Romans 6:13

Now when you look up rejoice, it really means to rejoice exceedingly, or to be exceedingly glad. This is rejoicing that has been energized by God for the purpose of enjoying Him and worshiping Him.

Do you understand the unlimited scope of rejoicing? Think about Who you are rejoicing in, and that will help your understanding of the extent of your rejoicing.

We love and serve an all-powerful God. There is none like Him. He is the King of kings, and Lord of lords. He is Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. Now consider some of His other attributes and traits—it’s a long list. You could just pick one to rejoice in forever.

We should rejoice exceedingly and greatly, because that is what He has called us to do.

Today’s One Thing

Mary gave us an example of magnifying and rejoicing in the LORD. She gave herself completely to God.  As you move through this advent, discover the joy of having your worship overwhelmed by His presence; and give yourselves completely to God.

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