This morning during worship, Karen talked to us about Mary and Mary's prayer of praise, the magnificat. While talking about church over lunch, my parents and I marvelled at how that would have felt for Mary to be greeted with such unreserved, enthusiastic affirmation from her cousin Elizabeth. Even when you know what you feel is right (and Mary seemed quite certain in understanding the importance of the baby she was carrying!) to have that confirmation come would be a relief! To be with someone who whole-heartedly believed her unconventional story - little wonder Mary responded with such outpouring of emotion!

But what I really appreciated about the sermon was the reminder that the magnificat pushes us out into the world, shows us that something new is starting - but not yet here. In the magnificat, we wait with vulnerable people in solidarity, and we see God's work in the world around us. A beautiful, warm reminder of love in these dark cold days.

‘My soul magnifies the Lord,
   and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,
for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant.
   Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
   and holy is his name.
His mercy is for those who fear him
   from generation to generation.
He has shown strength with his arm;
   he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
   and lifted up the lowly;
he has filled the hungry with good things,
   and sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
   in remembrance of his mercy,
according to the promise he made to our ancestors,
   to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’

Maureen R.