And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. Luke 1:46-50 (NIV)
Dear Lord Jesus, I woke up today extremely thankful for the gift of music—especially the songs of Advent, and it’s no mystery why. Every Advent hymn, carol, and chorus—from your Word, a hymnal, or my memory—fuels my hope and intensifies my longings.
Thank you for igniting our hearts to sing your praise. Thank you for giving us more than a reason to sing, Lord Jesus. I praise you for songwriters who capture what we feel, and give us the vehicle for expressing what we long to say to you.
Only Mary could fully sing the song recorded in these verses, and yet I join her Advent refrain today. I’m compelled to sing this good news, for you’ve been mindful of my humble, broken, sinful state, too. I have nothing to boast in but you, Lord Jesus. You came to me when I wasn’t seeking you, and you’re being formed in me as surely as you entered the world through Mary’s womb.
I’m a blessed man because you’ve done great things for me, and you continue to do so. Holy is your name, Lord Jesus. I have no concern for what any generation may say about me. It’s enough to know what you say about me: that I’m yours—forgiven, declared righteous, desired, enjoyed, and as already loved as I will be in the new heaven and new earth.
Your mercy has been extended to my generation, and to me personally. Therefore, my soul glorifies you, Lord Jesus, and my spirit rejoices in you, my God and Savior. As the gospel goes deeper into my heart, free me from all crippling fears. Free me to live and love to your glory, with great joy, all my remaining days. So very Amen I sing and pray, in your most glorious and grace-full name.