Can you imagine that Mary’s glorious Magnificat was considered dangerous writing? Its lyrics have subversive socio-economic and political implications, causing it to be banned several times in history. During British colonial rule in India, the song was prohibited from being sung in churches for fear of revolt. “He has brought down the powerful from their thrones and lifted up the lowly.” (1:52) In Argentina, during the “Dirty War,” as children went missing, mothers would put up posters of Mary’s song in the plaza, leading to its banning by authorities. Mary’s Magnificat is Good News to some more than others.
The images of Mary’s song are of revolution and of great joy, of God’s justice righting all wrongs for those who suffer, prompting us to notice whose joy Mary’s song does celebrate. My daughter and I share a favourite hymn, “The Canticle of the Turning,” (Evangelical Lutheran Worship #723) for this same reason. How joyful would it be to see the hungry fed? To see the unhoused with homes? To witness the healing and restoration of those relegated to the margins? God’s arrival will turn tables and upset balances, and for many it’ll be the wiping away of tears.
God of loving justice, you join us into Mary’s song as you usher in your transformation. Give us the courage and joy of Mary’s faithful yes. Amen. —