Introduction:
Merry Christmas, beloved community! Today, as we gather to celebrate the birth of our Savior, I want us to reflect on a simple yet profound question: “Mary, did you know?” This question encapsulates the wonder, mystery, and the revolutionary calling of a young woman chosen to bear the incarnation of God
Point 1: The Magnificat as a Womanist Perspective
Mary’s song reveals her understanding of God’s work not only in her life but within the larger context of humanity. “He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.” These words are a prophetic declaration that God is turning the world upside down. Just as God lifted her, He is also calling us to lift one another.
Point 2: Identity and Calling
Mary’s identity as the mother of Jesus was not just an appointment; it was a call—a call that demanded faith, endurance, and an unshakeable trust in God’s purpose. This raises a vital question for each of us: How is God calling us to respond in our own lives?
A wonderful aspect of the Magnificat is how personal it feels; it’s not just a proclamation about God’s greatness but also about God’s intimate care for the marginalized. God lifts the lowly and satisfies the hungry. Mary’s song speaks to the injustices we still face today: systemic racism, lack of access to healthcare, and economic disparities—issues that weigh heavily on our community.
Point 3: Call to Action
This Christmas season, as we reflect upon the birth of Christ through the lens of Mary, we are also called to action. We embrace the yes that Mary offered to God, and we ask, “What is my yes?” What are we willing to do to embody God’s love and hope in our community?
Imagine Mary asking, "Did you know?" Well, maybe we didn’t know all the implications of her yes, but we can choose to recognize them today. We can choose to be agents of hope, love, and change within our own spheres of influence.
This season, let us be encouraged to live out our calling, uplift our communities, and ignite our spirits for justice and love. Whether through service, advocacy, or simply sharing a kind word, we can reflect the love of Christ in a tangible way. Let’s dismantle the systems of injustice, serve those in need, and lift each other up as we journey together in faith.
Conclusion:
Mary, did you know? Maybe not fully, but she was willing to trust and obey. This Christmas, let’s reflect on the power of God working through us, just as He did through Mary. May we magnify the Lord in our lives, and may our spirits rejoice in God our Savior.
As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, let’s remember Mary’s strength and resilience. Let’s commit ourselves to live out our faith with the same boldness and courage she displayed.
So this Christmas, let us echo Mary’s song in our hearts and lives: "My soul magnifies the Lord!"
Let’s pray together.
As you leave today, carry the spirit of Mary's yes with you and ask yourself, “How can I say yes to God’s call and bring forth blessings in my community?” Celebrate with joy and purpose! Merry Christmas!
