Mary’s Praise For God’s Mercy

He shows mercy from generation to generation

to all who fear him.

His mighty arm has done tremendous things!

He has scattered the proud and haughty ones.

He has brought down princes from their thrones

and exalted the humble.

He has filled the hungry with good things

and sent the rich away with empty hands.

He has helped his servant Israel

and remembered to be merciful.

For he made this promise to our ancestors,

to Abraham and his children forever.

Luke 1:50-55

It’s all too easy to take God’s mercy for granted. It’s only because God mercifully sends our land rain and good weather that it produces abundant food. It’s only because of God’s mercy that we enjoy good food, warm clothes, and comfortable homes. Too often we are like children, who think they receive mercy only when they get into trouble. Mary’s prayer in this passage reveals that she knew to rejoice in God’s mercy when she was enjoying his blessing as well.

Reflect on how merciful God has been to you and your family—the ways he has lifted you up when you were down. During this wonderful Christmas season, remember how far God was willing to go to display his mercy to a fallen world.

• Dear Lord, your mighty arm has done tremendous things. You have exalted the humble . . .