Mary responded, “Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior! Luke 1:46–50
Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord. Eph. 5:19
Lord Jesus, I’ve never been more grateful for the gift of music—especially the songs of Advent and Christmas. They express our longings, fuel our hope, and center our hearts on you. Thank you for giving us, like Mary, multiple reasons to make music in our hearts.
Though she delivered you, Mary knew you came into the world to deliver both her and us. And yet, soon after your birth, she and Joseph had to flee to Egypt to protect your life. What a most profound paradox. It’s why, on this Friday, we are able to rest in you—even in the midst of a very difficult year.
You have done great things for us, and you continue to do so. Because of your life, death, and resurrection, we presently enjoy full forgiveness, and a robing in your righteous. You greatly delight in us, constantly care for us; and will return for us, on the perfectly pre-set Day.
This is why our quite-weary souls can rejoice, and not feel guilty about the weariness. Indeed, we feel hope, even as our many fears persist; for the Gospel makes us more human, not less. Thank you, Lord Jesus. So very Amen we pray, in your most glorious and grace-full name.