“because he has looked upon the humble state of his servant. For from now on all generations will call me blessed, because he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name;”
Luke 1:48-49
Into the Text
Mary meditated on God’s incredible might and holiness. God is exalted above everything, He is holy and is separated from what is ordinary.
When the Bible speaks of God’s holiness, it refers to His greatness and His moral perfection. God is different from us in that His heart and will are perfectly good, right, and lovely. God doesn’t lie to us or trick us. He is totally upright. God doesn’t break His promises. He is totally faithful. God does not turn a blind eye to injustice. He is totally impartial and just. God is not stingy and mean. He is overflowing with love, mercy, generosity, and kindness. God is holy, meaning that He is high above us and in a class by Himself. He is totally and uniquely beautiful. He is of infinite value. Even all of these descriptions cannot fully describe the holiness of God.
Instead of being scared of this mighty, exalted, and holy God, Mary was captivated by His beauty and filled with joy in His presence. His greatness has not kept Him from doing great things for her. God could have chosen the daughter of the king or high priest to give birth to Jesus. He could have chosen a girl who was rich, beautiful, educated, and admired. But, unlike us, God is not impressed by these attributes. Mary herself says that she was of a “humble state”, meaning she was probably a nobody in her community, overlooked by the important people, an insignificant servant. And yet, the holy God chose her, a peasant girl from Nazareth, to be the mother of the Messiah. Mary was amazed that God would be so great and yet see somebody as low as her.
Have you, like Mary, come to know how exalted and holy God is? Do you know how small and sinful you are in comparison, and how much mercy and grace He has poured on you through His Son, Jesus Christ? Think about it: the infinitely great and perfect God has chosen you to be His beloved daughter. He has lifted you out of your sin and depravity. He has promised you eternal glory in heaven by your faith in Jesus. You are highly valued and infinitely loved by Him. May we, like Mary, rejoice in God’s holiness.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, you are so high above me in greatness and purity, yet you love me. You are not only mighty, but you are also good. Holy God, I thank you. Amen.