Linda Buishas
If asked, what was the first Christmas song ever sung, could you name it? We probably wouldn’t think of this one, but many of us have heard it during Advent season. It was “composed” by a young girl who lived in Galilee in the first century BC. She was the Virgin Mary, and she had recently learned that she was to be the mother of Christ. It has been called a hymn, a psalm, a song of praise, the “Song of Mary,” and the “Magnificat.” It reflects a miraculous moment in time when Mary’s life was changed forever, as well as all of mankind’s.
Mary believed what the prophet Isaiah had prophesied; that a virgin would bear a son. She believed when the angel announced to her that she was to be that virgin. She believed when Elizabeth confirmed it by saying, “Who am I that the mother of God should come to me?” (Luke 1:43) Mary’s reply reveals that her heart was filled with joy and praise, even prophecy, for what God had done. Her song was her response. “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior. For He hath regarded the low estate of His handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.” For He that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is His name.” (Luke 1:46-49) Can we imagine her amazement that God had chosen her through whom He would fulfill the long-awaited promise? Mary exalted God for His goodness, for the life within her, and for what that child, Jesus, the Savior and Giver of Life, would mean to all mankind.
We can mirror Mary’s song of praise in our hearts. Our spirits can rejoice in Christ our Savior. We can praise God for considering our lowly state and yet giving us the gift of His life within us. Let our hearts be filled with joy over what God has done! May we be amazed that His perfect Spirit lives inside of us and that He calls those who take refuge in Him blessed!
When we are convinced of how profoundly relevant the story of Christ’s birth is to us, we can have that glorious joy and peace about which Christmas carols are written. We can have God’s Light through darkness, His guidance through confusion, His protection in danger, and His comfort through pain. Mary couldn’t have known all that Jesus would do. But we’ve heard the Gospel. We know what He has done. Anytime is the right time to sing for joy over the true meaning of that first Christmas and to have a personal song of praise in our hearts.
As you listen to your favorite Christmas carol about a mighty God who came as a baby and changed the world forever, whether Mary’s Song or another, Rejoice! For the Mighty One has done great things for us, and Holy is His name!
Merry Christmas!