Advent Devotional by Jonathan Rhoad

Luke 1:46-55

And Mary said: My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 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 forever, even as he said to our fathers.” (Luke 1:46-55)

Imagine! You are a young woman—hardly more than a girl. You are betrothed to a good man from a good family. Skilled! A carpenter. A good life of hard work awaits you. Then, unbelievably, an angel tells you that you are chosen to be the mother of the Messiah, the Chosen One of Israel. Can the vision of the angel have been real? One last visit to your cousin Elizabeth before settling down to raise your family. When you enter, she proclaims the truth to you, so you can no longer doubt. Your heart breaks out in song! God is great! You are a humble vessel, and he has chosen you to carry out his plan in the world.

Good news! We don’t have to imagine. We celebrate the coming of the Christ. God has blessed us to carry His good work into the world, and His good news to the lost. Mary’s song is our song—blessed humble servants of a mighty God.

 Jonathan Rhoad