(22ND DECEMBER)

First Reading: 1Sam 1:24-28; Psalm: 1Sam 2:1.4-5.6-7.8abcd R. v. 1a; Gospel: Lk 1:46-56

THE MAGNIFICAT

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

The Magnificat (Mary’s hymn of praise) is one of the greatest hymns of the Church. It is a hymn that resonates the graciousness and power of God and the nothingness of humankind. This hymn is similar to the song of Hannah as she brought Samuel to the temple as lent to the Lord (1Sam 1-10). In the magnificat we see how God works beyond human thoughts by choosing a poor virgin girl to be the Mother of his Son. Mary’s recognition of her status was a sign of humility and her acknowledgment as being favoured by God, a sign of thanksgiving.

In Mary’s magnificat, we see gratitude and humility. Mary was grateful that she was chosen to partner with God in the work of redemption and humbly acknowledged she was nothing but a lowly handmaid. This explains her kind of personality and why God considered her to be the mother of his son. Mary’s visit to Elizabeth in whose homestead this remarkable event took place further reverberates her humility and kind-heartedness. Indeed, God exalts the lowly and humbles the proud hearted.

One simple and clear way to test our spirit of gratitude and humility is the manner in which we react to great news or achievements in life. Often times, we are usually carried away by compliments and congratulatory messages which inadvertently begins to give us that sense of exclusivity. As if to say our excellence or intelligence made it happen. How readily do we turn to God in thanksgiving to acknowledge that he made possible every success we enjoy? Do we realise our limitedness even in our naturally gifted intelligence and ingenuity? Successes and great achievements are handy gauges to see through ourselves.   

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Lord Jesus, may we never fail to see your mighty hand behind our successes. Amen.