As
we celebrate Christ’s birth, we look back to two prayers of celebration at
God’s arrival to dwell among us, recorded in Luke. May these words be reflected
in our lives, as well. Merry Christmas!
Mary’s
Song, Luke 1: 46-55 (NIV):
And Mary said:
“My soul glorifies the Lord
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.
His mercy extends to those who fear
him,
from generation to generation.
He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
to Abraham and his descendants forever,
just as he promised our ancestors.”
from generation to generation.
He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
to Abraham and his descendants forever,
just as he promised our ancestors.”
Simeon’s
words about Jesus, Luke 2:29-35, 39 (NIV):
Simeon took him in his arms and
praised God, saying:
“Sovereign
Lord, as you have promised,
you may now dismiss your servant in peace.
For my eyes have seen your salvation,
you may now dismiss your servant in peace.
For my eyes have seen your salvation,
which
you have prepared in the sight of all nations:
a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and the glory of your people Israel.”
a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and the glory of your people Israel.”
The
child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon
blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to
cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will
be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed.
And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”
…When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law
of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth. And the
child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God
was on him.
