Unveiling Mary’s Melody

Read Luke 1:39-56

The question: What does Mary’s song reveal about: (a) the character of God, and
(b) His way of working among men? How were these facts demonstrated in the
manner of the Savior’s coming?

Just from the first few lines from Mary we can see several characteristics of God. He
is praise worthy, mindful of Mary’s humility, generous, Holy, mercy giving (for those
who fear him), and patient. In the next few lines there is a style reminiscent of the
proverbs where both end of a certain spectrum are given, along with their reaction
from God: Brought down/lifted up, filled/sent away empty. There are also two
words that jump off the page in contrast to each other, proud and humble. Of the
several different directions this passage could be studied, this devotional will
concentrate on these last two words, proud and humble.

Associated with the word Proud in this passage:

1. Scattered those proud in their inmost thoughts.

2. De-throned rulers.
3. Sent the rich away empty (of soul food).

Associated with the word Humble in this passage:

1. Mindful of humility
2. Rewards humility (all nation’s will call her blessed)
3. Extends mercy to those who fear him.
4. Lifted up.
5. Filled the hungry (spiritual food).
6. Show’s mercy.
7. Keeps his promise (to Abraham).

It is clear throughout the Bible that God gives grace to the humble, and “messes”
with the proud. Think of the woman at the well. Jesus gave her grace after she saw
him as the Messiah, (John 4). The centurion’s servant: Jesus gave him grace after
the centurion called him “Lord” (Mat 8). …and one of the best examples of this
contrast: the thief on the cross, who after acknowledging Jesus as Messiah, was
given God’s grace (Luke 23).

• Proverbs 15:33 NIV

The fear of the LORD teaches a man wisdom, and humility comes before honor.
• Proverbs 16:5 NIV
The LORD detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.

Mary’s song is snapshot of the consequence of this issue. Am I proud or am I

Humble before God? How bad is pride? It is at the root of EVERY sin EVERY person
has EVER made…
Are you proud or are you humble? Better ask yourself this question because:

• Proverbs 16:5 NIV

The LORD detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.

Love comments and questions to AndoverV@gmail.com.

Parting question for those who like to dig deeper: What do you think verse 51 is
telling us?