Luke 1:46-56

I am exhausted from the journey but emboldened at the same time. The angel's words were true! I knew it, but to stand here gazing at Elizabeth with child just confirms what was already revealed in my heart. You, Adonai, are worthy of all praise. What you are doing within us both is beyond understanding. Bringing forth life in places thought impossible by all the wisdom of this world. But there is a bigger purpose that has been promised for ages and my soul cannot contain the joy welling up within me for another moment. I take Elizabeth’s hands in mine and look to the heavens as we both fall to our knees…

“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”  

As the words of praise within me are finished, I look down at Elizabeth as shared tears run down our face, falling upon our hands clasped tightly together over the wombs You have filled. Here we kneel before You, Adonai, Your servants. Here I will stay for a while. Here is where I am needed. Continue to grow within me, not just this precious child, but my strength to walk this road with You wherever it leads next. 

Reflection Questions: Each day, we have tried to give a voice to the people in Scripture through our imaginative prayer. But today, the words are already there in Mary’s Magnificat. Please take your time praying over her words of praise slowly. Allow them to resonate within your soul. Where has the Lord done mighty things for you or your family members? Notice how she describes the character of the Lord and meditate on what He is capable of doing within your own life. Create your own magnificat today, praising the Lord for His life within you and all He is doing in you and through you. 

Prayer: O Lord, everything within me cries out to you with praise. Joy wells up within me, because even in the midst of an imperfect world, You see me and love me. You show mercy and strength, and You are Holy. Come to me now and send your Holy Spirit upon me that I may have words of praise ever on my lips. Amen.