Christian Devotional – December 4, 2017

Mercy, arrogance, and humility. These three words are not often used together, but they make up the theme of Mary’s song in Luke 1. As we read her story in Luke 1:26-56 we see these verses:

” and his mercy is upon generation after generation toward those who fear Him . “He has done mighty deeds with His arm; He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their heart. “He has brought down rulers from their thrones, And has exalted those who were humble.
Luke 1:50‭-‬52 NASB
https://bible.com/bible/100/luk.1.50-52.NASB

Mary is singing of her joy at being chosen as the mother of Christ. She recognizes that the mercy of God is available to every single person who seeks after God and who fears him. But, she also understands the difference between arrogance and humility and how that may impact a person’s ability to receive Mercy. She knows that God brings down the arrogant and she knows that God raises up those who are humble of heart. She has seen how God has raised her up, and she knows that there are others who would have appeared to be much more worthy of the honor that she is receiving, but God sees the heart.

As we look at what it means to have mercy, the fact that God is sending his son at all is the definition of mercy. He is providing to us something that we could never possibly deserve or earn: Mercy. If we will choose to receive his gift of Mercy we will understand what Mary understood as she sang this song. We cannot continue in Pride if we receive Mercy, for Mercy understands that it’s not deserved. Will we humble ourselves and accept God’s Gift of Mercy that is available for anyone and everyone who humbles himself enough to recognize they need it. Jesus Christ is waiting to be that gift of Mercy for us.