And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” (Luke 1:46–47)
Expanded Passage: Luke 1:26-28, 39-56
Carol Knapp described a predawn day in Alaska. Standing in the woods near clusters of spruce trees under the black sky, she marveled at the panorama of stars above her. She silently wished she could see a shooting star. As she offered up her praise to the God of the heavens, she quoted the psalmist: “All that is within me, bless his holy name” (Ps. 103:1 KJV). Just then, a shooting star streaked across the sky. She imagined God was writing his name in the heavens just for her. Then a second shooting star blazed into view.
Despite the fact that she was chilled in the predawn, it was mesmerizing. When she looked toward the North Star, a third shooting star raced across the sky. And then it was over. But as she went back inside, her heart swelled in praise to God.
As far as we know, Mary didn’t see any shooting stars, although the magi from the East followed a bright star to Bethlehem. Mary had her own personal angel who appeared, giving her the news about Jesus, whom she would carry. No wonder her soul glorified the Lord, and her spirit rejoiced in her Savior.
What are you rejoicing about as this year draws to a close? Be sure to praise the Lord for the year that is concluding and the new one all set to begin.
Rejoice in God your Savior, and glorify him.
Ron McClung is a retired minister in The Wesleyan Church. He lives in Michigan and has two sons, two outstanding daughters-in-law, nine grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.
© 2025 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
