Thursday 22nd December

1 Sam 1:24-28; Psalm 1 Samuel 2:1,4-8; Luke 1:46-56

The Magnificat of Mary

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German theologian, once called the ‘Magnificat’ “the most passionate, the wildest, one might even say the most revolutionary hymn ever sung.” Perhaps we can see a dream that Mary has. As a woman being able to invite ‘princes’ - leaders, the rich and powerful- down from their thrones to meet the lowly whom she ‘exalts’ and lifts up. In a spirit of reconciliation and repair, the rich are sent away ‘empty handed’ no longer seeking to take and gain from the poor. The hungry are now able to eat, enjoy ‘good things’ and live their life in dignity. Perhaps, like all mums, Mary holds this magnificent dream and hope for her child as she prepares to give birth at Christmas.