Sunday, December 16, 2007

DAY FIFTEEN: Song of the New Order

In Luke 1.46-55, we read one of the great songs of Scripture, Mary's "Magnificat"—so called because of its translation in the Latin Vulgate. Used in liturgical worship since the fourth century, the song is sung or recited in the Vespers (evening prayer) service in those churches which keep the practice of Divine Hours. A few general observations about this prayer today...

The Magnificat shows that Mary was a young woman who meditated on Scripture. This song is filled with Scriptural allusions, most notably from the Song of Hannah in 1Samuel 2.1-10.

Secondly, as Scot McKnight observes in his book, The Real Mary, the Magnificat reveals Mary as a young woman who was dangerous in her world. Her song proclaims the dawning of a new order in the world, one in which all categories are redefined. The poor are made rich; the powerful are cast down from their positions of authority. The proud are humbled, and the meek rule the earth. The Magnificat is a revolutionary vision of God judging the world and making it anew.

Thirdly, the Magnificat portrays Mary as a young woman of humility, submission and worship. She recognizes her own lowliness and the Divine favor which has come unbidden upon her. She worships God as the Mighty One who has done great things for her. She magnifies the Lord and rejoices in God her Savior.

Holy is his name.

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