Bring Him Praise

Last week I wrote about making space to receive Jesus as Mary did. The result of preparing room for Jesus, welcoming him to dwell with us, is praise.

After finding out that she, and her cousin Elizabeth, were both miraculously pregnant, Mary took off to see her cousin. When she arrived at Elizabeth’s door the Holy Spirit moved. Elizabeth blessed Mary, extolling her belief. Mary burst into worshipful song. Both women were overcome by the goodness of God.

“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.

Luke 1:47-48

Mary sings a song of worship, praising God’s goodness and mercy. Her song is rich with the nature and purposes of God. I wonder if Mary went to see her cousin Elizabeth for the same reason unmarried pregnant young women usually “go visit their aunt.” Her pregnancy was a source of confusion and embarrassment to her family and maybe even her whole town. Her relationship with Joseph had been through a rough patch.

Her circumstances, humanly speaking, were not ideal. Yet Mary erupts into praise. Theologically rich praise. Strong and deep. It appears the Holy Spirit had given her the ability to see the scope of God’s work, in her life, and in the world.

His mercy extends to those who fear him,
    from generation to generation.
He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
    he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.

Luke 1:50-51

Regardless of her circumstances Mary understands Jesus’ superior worth and God’s goodness. She chooses to worship him. We have the same opportunity. Life may be great or we may have struggles and hardship, but when we’ve made space for Jesus to live in us through his Spirit, we have reason to praise. God has “extended mercy, and performed mighty deeds.” We can trust him. Just like Mary, no matter the situation, we can, and should, erupt into worship.

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

How are you worshipping God in this season?