The Magnificat is a response to some pretty esoteric stuff: a virgin, an angel, a message from God, a kingdom without end. And the virgin’s acceptance of all this with extraordinary simplicity, innocence, and trust. And then the exuberant exultation as this powerless, vulnerable maiden suddenly finds herself vaulted into the arena of world events. Was I ever so young and trusting? I would more likely have said, “I know this is your plan, Lord, but…geez!” Mary just said “yes” and became the bearer of the Son who brought good news to a broken society and ultimately to a broken world.

Israel saw healings and forgiveness, saw the lowest cared for, their humanity acknowledged, their place in society restored. Then the scales of justice slowly began to move into balance. The lowly were lifted up, the powerful were brought down. With this maiden-mother’s son God deposed the tetrarch and his collaborators. Down through the centuries, her name became a prayer for many while the titles of powerful men turned to dust. Her child grew to manhood and overwhelmed an empire with mercy.

God had rocked the world in order to fulfill an ancient covenant. God’s people would see that he had not given up on them, even though they had forgotten their part of the bargain. God kept faith because that’s what God does. This is good news for the world, and for me.

Even when I fall, the Holy One lifts me. The events that seem to rule my life are nothing compared to him. He loved me from birth, took me as his own at baptism, and promised me his eternal love. Can I return that love, every day? Can I love what he loves? Can I exalt his name forever? That is my prayer.

O Holy One, may I love you and praise you daily, love those you love, and answer yes when you call. Amen.
-Carol Treston