A Look Back to Look Forward

“And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.”

In today’s reading we encounter two speeches, one spoken by Elizabeth and one spoken by Mary, that highlight two important titles for Jesus. Elizabeth, full of the Holy Spirit, refers to Jesus as “my Lord” (v. 43). Through the Holy Spirit, Elizabeth recognizes the lordship of Jesus even while he is still in the womb. In Mary’s Song, recorded subsequently, she identifies the Lord as her “Savior” (v.46).

These two titles, “Lord” and “Savior,” are not just any old words. They are titles used to honor, praise, and revere important people. By identifying Jesus with these titles, Elizabeth and Mary express belief in the fulfillment of what is yet to come. For that they are blessed.

Elizabeth and Mary believe in what they cannot yet see because they recognize God’s faithfulness throughout their history. Mary’s Song praises God for his mighty deeds. God’s mighty deeds throughout history include scattering the proud, bringing down the powerful, lifting the lowly, filling the hungry, sending the rich away empty, and showing mercy toward His people.

Mary can look back and see that God has always been faithful to fulfill what he has spoken to his people. God has always been able to keep his people. Isn’t that a reason to praise God today?

I invite you to do so now. Like Mary, take a moment to remember and name the mighty deeds of God in your life. Thank him for those times he has been faithful toward you. Go in peace today knowing that the God you have history with is still with you.

Father God, help me to see today that You will keep me, because You have always kept me. Amen.

DAVID MARTINEZ
Master of Divinity Student
East Bernard, Texas