Deeper Reflection
MARY’S SONG IS THEOLOGICALLY SIGNIFICANT. Its inclusion in this narrative reveals to us that the Gospel account was intended more to be a story to be heard than a history to be read. Mary’s song carries for us two significant shifts that impact the way we view God’s covenantal promises in relation to future generations. First, Mary’s song reveals a reversal of her social situation, in that God has looked upon the “humble estate of His servant” and caused her to be counted “blessed” in the eyes of all future generations (v.48). This is the basis for declaring that God is merciful and pours out His grace on all, even the lowly, from generation to generation. Friends, how does this change our mindset about reaching out to and helping children and young people from poor families and marginalised communities in Singapore or our neighbouring countries?Second, Mary’s song tells of the fulfilment of God’s covenantal promises to the people of Israel, because the promised Messiah has come to provide salvation to God’s people. As announced by an angel of the Lord to Mary’s husband Joseph, “She will bear a son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins” (Matt 1:21). God has fulfilled His covenantal promises given to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The birth of Jesus was the redemptive historical fulfilment of God’s promised Messiah for His people – all those people throughout history, from every nation and generation, who believe in God’s promised Messiah, Jesus. They are all considered Abraham’s “offspring forever” (v.55) and are recipients of God’s mercy through His Son.