Luke 1:46-55
46 And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is his name. 50 His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. 51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. 52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. 53 He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful 55 to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.”
Luke 1:46-55: Verse-by-Verse Analysis
Verse 46: “And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord'”
Mary begins her song of praise, often called the Magnificat, by glorifying the Lord. She expresses deep gratitude and reverence.
Verse 47: “and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,”
Mary’s joy is profound. She acknowledges God as her Savior, indicating her personal relationship with Him.
Verse 48: “for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed,”
Mary recognizes her humble position. She is aware that future generations will honor her because of God’s favor.
Verse 49: “for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is his name.”
Mary attributes her blessings to God’s power. She praises His holiness and acknowledges His mighty deeds.
Verse 50: “His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation.”
God’s mercy is not limited. It extends to all who revere Him, across all generations.
Verse 51: “He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.”
God’s power is evident in His actions. He opposes the proud and exalts the humble.
Verse 52: “He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble.”
God’s justice is clear. He dethrones the powerful and elevates the lowly.
Verse 53: “He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty.”
God provides for the needy. He ensures that the hungry are satisfied while the rich, who rely on their wealth, are left wanting.
Verse 54: “He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful”
God’s faithfulness to Israel is highlighted. He remembers His covenant and shows mercy.
Verse 55: “to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.”
God’s promises are eternal. His covenant with Abraham and his descendants is everlasting, fulfilling His word to the ancestors.