Praying the Magnificat, thanking God for His mercy...
Reflections on the readings for the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (May 31, 2019): ZEP 3:14-18; ISAIAH 12:2-3,4,5-6; LK 1:39:56
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days
This feast of the Visitation recounts the beautiful coming together of two women who knew, loved and wanted to support each other even as they thanked God for His mercy to them – and to the world.
The prayer that Mary offers has come to be known as the Magnificat, and it offers worship and praise to the Almighty. “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God My Savior, for He has looked with favor on His lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is His Name.… He has remembered His promise of mercy, the promise He made to our fathers” (Luke 1:46-49, 54-55). This canticle, or Scripture-based hymn, expresses how God upends human power and pride by honoring those who are humble and loyal to Him. It speaks of promises God has made to His people in the Old Testament and is now fulfilling.
Mary’s song rejoices in God’s love for all His children. For followers of Christ, it serves as a lovely reminder to trust in Him who will always give us more joy than we can imagine. At that moment in Elizabeth and Zechariah’s house, the Blessed Mother did not know what was ahead for herself or her Son. But she relied on the Almighty’s compassion and generosity – and so can we.
Suggested missionary action: In honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s Visitation as she carried Jesus within her, we can offer a World Mission Rosary for all those who do not yet recognize her Son, the Son of God, as our Savior, and for missionaries who bring them the Good News of our Savior.
