Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior for He has looked upon His lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is His name” – Luke 1: 46-47

The Magnificat, taken from Luke’s Gospel, is one of my favorite readings in scripture. This occurs right after Mary has been visited by the Angel Gabriel to inform her that she is to be the Mother of God. The Angel Gabriel also tells Mary about the pregnancy of Elizabeth. Mary’s devotion to Elizabeth is shown when she takes an arduous journey to visit her many miles away. I admire the fact that Mary was being of service to others by putting Elizabeth before herself. Mary was indeed “magnifying” the Lord’s goodness and love.

During this past year, I have seen many people do just that. One of my colleagues was so concerned that her 98 year old mother was not being provided with enough interaction with others in a nursing facility during Covid that she decided to have her mother come live with her. This required so much to adapt and change her home to accommodate her mother. I couldn’t help but reflect on the fact that a mothers’ love is unconditional, but in this case, a daughter’s love proved to be just as unconditional. My friend was also “magnifying” the Lord’s goodness and love. As we get ready to conclude this season of Advent, how have others seen Christ’s love and goodness in you? How are you allowing God’s work within you to accomplish his will? As we celebrate the birth of Christ just a few days from now, may we look into our hearts and glorify the Lord, allowing the Mary’s spirit to be in us so that we too, may rejoice in God our Savior.

Lord, may others see Christ’s love and goodness through us. Through Your mother, Mary, may we seek her grace to help us magnify You so that we may serve You with holiness and love. Amen.

Cathy Reynolds

To view the full Advent 2021 booklet in English, click here.

For Spanish, click here.

For French, click here.

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