My Spirit Rejoices in God My Savior
Last month, we began a journey together through the gospel of Luke, reflecting on women who received “more” through the life-transforming work of Jesus. The first woman we found was Elizabeth. The second woman to appear in the gospel of Luke is Mary. Again, we read of a woman, this time a young woman, who has no idea that the Lord has planned more for her than she could ever ask or imagine.
Mary is described as a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph and highly favored by God. (Luke 1:26-30) The angel Gabriel greets Mary, delivers astonishing news, and provides an equally astounding explanation to Mary’s question, “How will this be?” (Luke 1:31-37) The angelic encounter concludes with Mary’s statement, “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said.” (Luke 1:38) Life would never be the same. The holy one, the Son of God, would be conceived in Mary through the Holy Spirit.
At times, when Jesus enters our life, we find ourselves shaken, uncertain of the implications of His presence in and purpose for us. This is not, in most instances, the best time to be alone. We are created for community. In times of uncertainty and confusion, we benefit from godly counsel and trusted friends.
In Mary’s case, she hurried to the hill country of Judea, entered Zechariah’s home, and was greeted by Elizabeth. And what a greeting it was! In a loud voice, filled with the Holy Spirit, Elizabeth exclaimed, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!” (Luke 1:42-45)
Words of encouragement. Words of confirmation. Words of blessing. What a gift!
After receiving this gift from Elizabeth, Mary speaks her “Magnificat,” which includes this phrase: “My spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” (Luke 1:47)
The gospel has now impacted a second female life. Once again, the good news of Jesus is life-giving, affirming, praise-inducing, personal.
What about you? Has the entry of Jesus into your life created an impact recently? Do you have a support system, the community you need to help you process the uncertainties that can occur in unexpected moments such as this? May this year bring fresh encounters with Jesus and a caring community that helps each of us reach a point in our faith journey where we can exclaim with sincerity, “My spirit rejoices in God my Savior.”
