A Prayer About Singing Mary’s Song
And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me- holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. Luke 1:46-50
Dear Lord Jesus, I woke up today so thankful for the gift of songs, especially the songs of Advent. It seems I’m more likely to lose my inhibitions and break into singing Christmas songs quicker, and with more passion, than any other genre. And it’s not rocket science to figure out why this is so.
Every Advent hymn, carol and chorus I treasure-from from your Word, in my hymnal or my iPod-propels me into hope and gratitude. Hope and gratitude, hope and gratitude, more hope and more gratitude. And when my heart is kissed by these twin graces, Lord Jesus, I’m much freer and so much more full of faith.
So I praise you for tuning my heart to sing your praise. I praise you for giving me a reason to sing, Lord Jesus. And I praise you for songwriters who express what I feel and give me the vehicle for saying to you what I want to be able to say.
Mary, your mother, had a story quite different from mine, and yet I join her Advent refrain today. I can sing her song. How can I not? For indeed, you’ve been so mindful of my humble, broken, sinful state. I have nothing to boast in but you, Lord Jesus. You came to me when I wasn’t seeking you. You are being formed in me as surely as you entered the world through Mary’s womb.
I’m a blessed man because you’ve done great things for me, and you continue to do great things for me. Holy is your name, Lord Jesus! I have no concern for what any generation may say about me. It’s enough to know what you say about me… that I am yours, that I am forgiven, that I am righteous in you, that nothing can separate me from your love.
Your mercy has been extended my generation, and to me, personally. Therefore, my soul glorifies you, Lord Jesus, and my spirit rejoices in you, my God and my Savior. As the gospel goes deeper into my heart, free me from all fears except the fear of the Lord. I want to be filled and freed with an affectionate reverence for you, and you alone, Lord Jesus. So very Amen, I sing and pray, in your most glorious and gracious name.
