Magnification of the Lord

Song: Story of Grace

LESSON:

Genesis 1-2 & Luke 1


SCRIPTURE:

Luke 1:46-48

“My soul magnifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant."

OBSERVATION:

I think the easiest and most me-centric interpretation of this passage is a straight forward "If I'm good God will be good to me." But if you look beyond the poem at large, and focus on some of the words Mary chose, there's a deeper meaning that's about community. The word "magnifies" in verse 46 stuck out to me when I read this passage. As it happens, this word is accurate in Hebrew as well as English. So there are no mistranslations when it comes to the point that was being made. And, as many of us know, Hebrew words are carefully chosen and have explicit meanings and gematria. In verse 46, Mary isn't saying simply "God is awesome." She's saying that, by her faithfulness to the Lord, she becomes a magnifying glass on the existence of God via His works in her life, making him easier to see for others. She becomes a beacon. That's a powerful statement and isn't about her at all. She's not showing off that she's favored by God. She's grateful that she can be an instrument for Him, so that others might come to know him. What an incredibly selfless statement.


APPLICATION:

All of us have an opportunity to shine a light for the Lord, in our right actions and behaviors, our faithfulness to God, and our control over our thoughts. What better way to combat the society we live in, where Christianity is often looked down upon, then to be a beacon for God's perfect love? If, daily, we do good works that are genuine and stay steadfast and focused on him, we don't need to be loud or controversial. Actions always speak louder than words.


PRAYER:

Lord, thank you for giving us a clear way to show others who you are. Thank you for your unending love and guidance. Please help me humble myself and learn to show your great works through my actions and not through boisterous words. Show me how I can be more of a beacon for you, so that your desires can shine through me to others.