Advent at Village 7, week 4

“And Mary said,
“‘My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,'”
Luke 1:46, 47

Elizabeth’s affirmation led to Mary’s worship, her song, The Magnificat.

A quick review of where we are in the story …

Mary’s first response to Gabriel was a question, Luke 1:34 … How will this be?
Mary’s second response was submission, Luke 1:38 … let it be to me according to your word.
Mary’s third response was, Luke 1:39 … running to visit her older cousin Elizabeth.

Who would you have run to with similar news? It’s interesting the scripture doesn’t record for us that she ran to Joseph, the one she was pledged to be married to, or to her mother, but to Elizabeth who herself was living with a miracle pregnancy. Elizabeth, possibly the only one who would understand.

I remember like it was yesterday hearing the voice of God in my quiet time that morning during my senior year of college as I read Romans 15:5 and 6. It spoke to my friendship with Bill. I closed my Bible and ran to the next dorm. I just had to share my news with my friend. It was a couple of weeks later when the time was right to share with Bill. I understand Mary.

Some thoughts to ponder:

1. Elizabeth’s affirmation reminded Mary that the source of her new was God. What would it look like for you to remind others that the source of their blessings was God?
2. What words have you heard from God that have been a blessing, a wonder to you during Advent this year?
3. In the midst of your Christmas celebration, what will it look like for you to pause and listen for God’s words to you?

Merry, Merry Christmas!
Emanuel, God is With Us!

Copyright: Sue Tell, December 2025