Awaited Lovingly

Have you ever had a song stuck in your head where the tune is playing over and over in your mind? Sometimes you can’t help singing or humming the tune all day long. If you look at the Gospel of Luke, there is much singing as we reach the story of Christ’s birth. Those songs are sung by elderly men like Zechariah and Simeon, and there’s even the song of the angels at Christ’s birth. In Luke 1:46-55 we find the words to a song Mary was singing. Why does Mary sing and what does she sing? Mary’s song is beautiful and echoes the song of Hannah, the mother of Samuel. Both women sing of God’s mercy for the humble. Both rejoice that God is not impressed by pride, riches, or power. Both shout with great joy that God keeps His promises and shows His mercy. Mary adapts the words of Hannah and the Psalms. She echoes the timeless voice of believers who hold fast to God, who believe in his great power to save, and who trust in His righteousness and mercy. They trust in God’s unfailing love. And that is where we rest this week. If you are looking for the hope, joy, and peace of this season, it is ultimately (and only) found in the love of God. We can magnify God because He has drawn near to us in the person of Jesus Christ. May each of us come to know the love of God and the grace, mercy, and peace He brings. We look forward to seeing you this Sunday either in person or online. And, as Pastor Andrew reminded us of this past week, don’t forget our "5 for 5 Challenge" - praying for five people/families for five minutes a day for five weeks...and then making sure to invite them to join you for one of our three Christmas Eve services.