Luke 1:46-48

It would have probably taken Mary about four days to travel down south to meet up with her elderly relative, Elizabeth. During that arduous journey she had plenty of time to reflect on the incredible things that were happening in her life. It may well be that she spent time reflecting on the song of Hannah in the Old Testament and so it is not surprising that Mary’s song has so much in common with Hannah’s words (1 Samuel 2:1-10). They beautifully express her faith and confidence in God.

Above all, Mary’s song is an outburst of humility. She is amazed that God should have noticed her. She was only a lowly servant girl and wasn’t expecting to be given a big role in life or to achieve fame. But God had other plans for her. She was being called to fulfil one of the most awesome roles in the whole of history.

Our situation is obviously very different from Mary’s but, for all of us, it is a moment of sheer amazement when we come to realise that God loves us and that we are special to him. I remember the way in which I struggled to believe that when I was a teenager. When I learned about the enormity of the universe it seemed incredible to me that I could be known and loved by God. I thought that he must have far more important things on his mind. But no, the Bible is consistently clear that you and I are infinitely precious.

Jesus pointed this out clearly too. He reminded us that God even knows the hairs on our head. They are all numbered (Luke 12:7). Our God even cares for birds that are of little monetary value. And yet, not one of them falls to the ground without God knowing all about it (Matthew 10:29-30).

I wonder how you see yourself. Perhaps, like Mary, you don’t think of yourself as being very important at all. You assume that no one really notices you. Well be sure of this, God does notice you and he loves you. I suggest that we should take a leaf out of Mary’s book and begin this day by praising God that, incredibly, he has taken notice of us and has great plans for us.

Question
How do you respond to the fact that you are so important to God?

Prayer
Loving God, I am amazed by your love for me. Help me to live close to you throughout this day. Amen

Released on 16 Dec 2023