Overwhelmed by God

The Magnificat is Mary’s response to the life-changing news that she will be theotokos, the mother of God. Despite all the ways in which this has the potential to inconvenience or embarrass her, she has received it as good news and a mark of God’s favour. With great humility, she celebrates God, opens herself to the role she has been called to play in God’s salvation drama, and proclaims that the blessing of God is for the poor and lowly, not just the rich and powerful.

This is a canticle prayed daily in the church. It has shaped spiritual life for generations. I find myself thinking about the character of Mary, her humility and acceptance. But Mary wants to point us to God who has done great things for us. It’s God’s salvation story, and Mary is just pleased to be able to play a part. By praying it every day, I am invited to revel in the fact that God’s favour is not dependent upon wealth or status, to know that even when life becomes a little frustrating or challenging, God’s intent is for me to know the goodness and blessing of God, and to remember that I am also called to play a part in God’s story.

Mighty God, give me openness to your overwhelming love and presence today. Amen. — CN

Contributed by Overwhelmed by God

The Magnificat is Mary's response to the life-changing news that she will be theotokos, the mother of God. Despite all the ways in which this has the potential to inconvenience or embarrass her, she has received it as good news and a mark of God's favour. With great humility, she celebrates God, opens herself to the role she has been called to play in God's salvation drama, and proclaims that the blessing of God is for the poor and lowly, not just the rich and powerful. This is a canticle prayed daily in the church. It has shaped spiritual life for generations. I find myself thinking about the character of Mary, her humility and acceptance. But Mary wants to point us to God who has done great things for us. It's God's salvation story, and Mary is just pleased to be able to play a part. By praying it every day, I am invited to revel in the fact that God's favour is not dependent upon wealth or status, to know that even when life becomes a little frustrating or challenging, God's intent is for me to know the goodness and blessing of God, and to remember that I am also called to play a part in God's story.
Eternity for Today