Main Thought
Mary’s experience in conceiving Christ as a virgin, by the power of God’s Holy Spirit, is often romanticized in the Christmas season. But have you ever thought about what that might have been like for her? People would have gossiped and assumed things about her. She could have lost her betrothed; in fact, we’re told in Matthew 1 that Joseph was planning to divorce her quietly. Mary’s future would have been very uncertain. In spite of this, Mary didn’t magnify the wrong things. She chose to magnify God by focusing on Him, and allowing her awareness and perception of Him to grow. We can learn from Mary’s example when we magnify Jesus. He’s near to us, and He satisfies our souls.
Main Passages
28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”
- Luke 1:28-33
46 And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior 48 for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed. 49 for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.
- Luke 1:46-49
8 Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.
- James 4:8
Discussion Questions
What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?
What kind of things do you have a tendency to “magnify,” focus on, or prioritize?
What do you think it means or feels like to magnify God? How can you do that this week?