His mercy extends from generation to generation.
We live in a crazy world. Some days, it just strikes me how badly things seem to be spiralling out of control. Wars, political murders, violence against women and children, at times, it feels as if nothing good is going on.
Even in our own country, India, millions of people live in modern-day slavery and reports of religious persecution have significantly increased in recent years.
The temptation exists to want to stick your head in the sand when hearing these kinds of reports. It is easier to focus on your own life and the things right in front of you than to be bogged down by the heaviness of the problems of this world.
When I read Mary’s song, following the news that she would give birth to Jesus, the Son of God, it struck me how, in that crucial and life-changing moment, she not only focuses on the changes in her life, but also the bigger picture.
It is as if her prayer/praise goes through three phases.
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She focuses on what God has done for her:From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is His name. – Luke 1:48-49 NIV
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She then goes on to remember others:His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation. – Luke 1:50 NIV
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Finally, she praises God for what He has already done, and will do, for her nation–Israel:He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and His descendants forever, just as He promised our ancestors. – Luke 1:54-55 NIV
The news reports in Mary’s time weren’t much better than ours today. Israel lived under Roman occupation at the time and desperately wanted deliverance.
I am impressed that during the most significant event of her life, Mary remembers to pray for her nation and those around her.
I have to be honest: I doubt I would’ve done the same. But it is a beautiful reminder that we, too, should never cease praying for our nation and thanking God, not only for what he does for us, but also for those around us.
