While You Wait (Luke 1:46-55) // December 23, 2018

While You Wait (Luke 1:46-55) // December 23, 2018

#ComeSunday #SermonNotes: In the days leading up to Sunday worship, we share a brief sermon summary and questions for devotion and reflection.   Follow us on our website and on facebook to stay up to date!                      


Luke 1:46-55 (Common English Bible)

46 Mary said,

“With all my heart I glorify the Lord!

47     In the depths of who I am I rejoice in God my savior.

48 He has looked with favor on the low status of his servant. Look! From now on, everyone will consider me highly favored

       49  because the mighty one has done great things for me.

Holy is his name.

50     He shows mercy to everyone, from one generation to the next, who honors him as God.

51 He has shown strength with his arm. He has scattered those with arrogant thoughts and proud inclinations.

52     He has pulled the powerful down from their throne and lifted up the lowly.

53 He has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty-handed.

54 He has come to the aid of his servant Israel,remembering his mercy,

55     just as he promised to our ancestors, to Abraham and to Abraham’s descendants forever.

Summary:  

Advent does not just look backward to the first coming of Christ, but also looks forward to the Second Coming of Christ.  In this season, God’s promise is for the Messiah to bring peace. In this scripture, as Mary waits to give birth to Christ, she sings a song of praise to God to remind herself and her people why Christ is coming. Mary’s song is a cry for justice. We too, must continue to sing the Lord’s song with hope and expectation for a new day coming!

Reflection Questions:

  1. While Mary waits, she sings her song. What is your song this season?
  2. Mary’s song rejoices in God answering the prayers of her people. What answered prayer are you thankful for?
  3. What prayer did your foreparents pray that you benefitted from?