Scripture:
“And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is his name.’” – Luke 1:46–49
Devotional:
Mary’s song burst forth not because her problems disappeared, but because her eyes were lifted higher. She was still a young girl in a complicated situation, still carrying a child the world wouldn’t understand. Yet her heart overflowed with worship. Why? Because worship changes perspective. It anchors us in who God is, not in what we can see.
Her words reveal a God who notices the overlooked, who lifts up the humble, and who never forgets His promises. Though her path ahead was filled with whispers and uncertainty, Mary sang because she trusted the faithfulness of the Mighty One. She remembered that His mercy stretches from generation to generation, and His strength is never shaken.
This is the miracle of worship. It doesn’t erase the struggle, but it reshapes our hearts. It silences fear by magnifying God’s faithfulness. Mary’s trembling turned into trust, her fear into a song. And her song wasn’t just hers — it became the anthem of all who believe: “The Mighty One has done great things for me — holy is His name.”
Application:
Where do you need to lift your eyes from fear to worship this Advent?
What “great things” has God done for you that you need to praise Him for?
Prayer:
“Lord, turn my fear into faith and my questions into praise. Like Mary, let my soul magnify You. Remind me of the great things You have done so that my heart overflows in gratitude. Holy is Your name, now and forever. Amen.”
Family Advent Activities
1. Mary’s Praise Shakers (Craft)
Fill a small plastic container (like an empty water bottle) with rice, pasta, or beads.
Decorate with stickers or markers. Write: “Praise God!”
Kids can use them while singing or shouting praise.
Tie-in: “Mary praised God with her song. We can make music to praise Him too.”
2. Freeze Praise Game (Active)
Play a Christmas carol (“Joy to the World,” “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” etc.).
Kids dance or spin with joy while the music plays.
When the music stops, they freeze and shout: “God has done great things!”
Tie-in: “Mary sang her praise. We can praise with our voices and actions too.”
Recipe Option:
Magnificat Muffins
Bake or buy mini muffins.
Drizzle with icing or add sprinkles.
As you enjoy them, say: “God has done great things for us.”
Tie-in: “Mary sang because she saw God’s goodness. This sweet treat reminds us to be thankful for His blessings.”
