More to the Story
Christmas in the Old Testament

JESUS’ BIRTH IN LUKE

The Birth Stories in Luke are full of singing! This passage is called the “Magnificat” Latin for the first Greek words of the song. You may have heard it sung in church services at Christmas.
 
As you read, notice two things: First Mary is really, really happy. She builds what she says on Hanna’s song, which she must have know very well. She feels loved, cared for, blessed and she wants others to know they can feel this way too.
 
Second what she sings is revolutionary. She predicts the overturning of everything this world is about. The rich will be humbled and the humble will be lifted up. The world will be turned upside down. There is a new world coming and those who inherit it will not be those who exploit this one.
 
Mary said: With all my heart I praise the Lord,
and I am glad because of God my Savior.
He cares for me, his humble servant. From now on, all people will say God has blessed me.
God All-Powerful has done great things for me, and his name is holy.
He always shows mercy to everyone who worships him.
The Lord has used his powerful arm to scatter those who are proud.
He drags strong rulers from their thrones and puts humble people in places of power.
God gives the hungry good things to eat, and sends the rich away with nothing.
He helps his servant Israel and is always merciful to his people.
The Lord made this promise to our ancestors, to Abraham and his family forever!   Luke 1:46-55(CEV)