December 3, 2021 - Luke 1:39-56

Surprise birthday parties and celebrations are gratifying when the person is caught totally unprepared. One of the most difficult things to do is to keep a secret. It is especially difficult when it is a very special event or detail that is going to impact many people.

The angel had left, and Mary was desirous to share with someone the exciting news she had been given. Who could share in her secret without casting judgment or suspicion? To the hill country of Judah, she went to visit the one person who could understand and relate to the story Mary was to reveal. Mary understood that not everyone was capable of hearing and responding to the extraordinary work of God.

Elizabeth had also experienced a supernatural work of God in her life, as she was once barren and now six months pregnant. She was filled with joy when the mother of her Lord came to visit her. Together, the two women were not only relatives but also innocent co-participants in this divine plan that was unfolding.

Elizabeth's words of encouragement and comfort allowed Mary the freedom to express herself in the words that have become known as Mary's song. The words are filled with Old Testament allusions and quotations that magnified the Lord and His promised prophecies. The expression of these words illustrate the trust and familiarity Mary had of God's word.

Mary's expression of praise erupts from a heart that is overflowing with adoration and worship. As we sing Christmas music and reflect upon the Mighty works of God this Christmas season, may our hearts reflect Mary's words. A song, Mary, Did You Know?, is a great song to listen to and meditate upon how the mother of Jesus might have grappled with her major role in this divine program.

We also have a part to play in the presentation and program of Christmas this year! May we be filled with the joy and awe that radiates our love of Christ to a world that is increasingly skeptical. Despite the calls for canceling or reducing the Christmas story, may we tell those we encounter the amazing story of God's coming to earth! The mystery is no longer a secret and we, like Mary, can sing and speak it confidently!