Sing.

“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 for He who is mighty has done great things for me, and Holy is His name.” Luke 1:46-49

Humble beginnings.

I love the way God chooses to enter into humanity through the simplest of ways.

In Luke’s gospel, the angel Gabriel has some big news to deliver to Mary: “Mary, don’t be afraid. You have found favor with God. Listen, you are going to become pregnant. You will have a son, and you must name Him ‘Savior,’ or Jesus.” (Luke 1:30-31) Enter into the scene a completely relevant question from Mary: “But I have never been with a man. How can this be possible?” (Luke 1:34) Let’s be honest. She makes a valid point. But here is where Gabriel speaks with amazing truth: “The Holy Spirit will come upon you. The Most High will overshadow you. That’s why this holy child will be known, as not just your son, but also as the Son of God… so the impossible is possible with God.” (Luke 1:35,37)

So, hearing the news, learning of what God would do through, not just her but also her cousin Elizabeth, as well, what does Mary do?

She sings.

As I read through scripture, it’s always amazing how the Holy Spirit will take words I have read hundreds of times before and lead me to savor, meditate and see things in a fresh and new way. Reading through this story again today, I am struck by Mary’s words, “For the Mighty One has done great things for me; holy is God’s name!”

Mighty is a powerful word. It has muscle. In the Greek, the word for “mighty” is “dynatos” and a closer interpretation of this actually translates to this: “to be able.” And Mary’s response to Gabriel’s news that the impossible is possible with God? God is able.

I have seen God’s hand on my life in so many ways, yet, it’s funny how quickly I can forget this truth. I am inspired by Mary’s faith and response. As we approach the day, we may find some obstacles in our way. But, here’s the truth: we are children of a mighty God and, no matter the hardships or circumstances that face us in this day, God is ABLE.

This Sunday morning, let’s gather at 10:00 a.m. in the Harvest worship space to light the fourth Advent candle of Peace, and then, at 3:00, 5:00 and 7:00 p.m., let’s gather for our Harvest Christmas Eve services and stand, yet again, in awe of God coming in the most unexpected ways.