Luke 1:46-47, 48-49, 50-51, 52-53, 54-55
Chapter 1
46
And Mary said,
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
47
my spirit exults in God, my savior!
48
He has looked upon his servant in her lowliness,
and people, forever, will call me blessed.
49
The Mighty One has done great things for me,
Holy is his Name!
50
From age to age, his mercy extends
to those who live in his presence.
51
He has acted with power and done wonders,
and scattered the proud with their plans.
52
He has thrown down the mighty from their thrones,
and lifted up the lowly.
53
He has filled the hungry with good things,
but has sent the rich away empty.
54
He has helped Israel, his servant,
remembering his mercy,
55
according to the promise to our fathers,
to Abraham and his descendants forever.”
Commentaries
Mary Visits Elizabeth.
Two women stand out in this story: two children in their mothers’ wombs, and the Holy Spirit who fills Elizabeth with joy to bless Mary and the “fruit of her womb” (42). The Holy Spirit also moves Mary to sing the “Magnificat” (46-55), exalting the greatness of the Lord through humble people—those who do not count but trust in him. Luke observes that the powerful and ambitious drive history through power, possession, and domination, leaving behind a trail of impoverished, marginalized, and excluded people. However, God works precisely through these humble individuals. This is why Mary’s song is revolutionary: it invites us to trust in the power of the Lord who works through the humble. The “Magnificat” is an invitation to every believer with a simple heart to proclaim the greatness of the Lord, not only with their words but also through their daily efforts and struggles.