Word to the Wise
Thursday, December 23, 2010 - Wednesday in the Fourth Week of Advent
[1 Samuel 1:24-28 and Luke 1:46-56]Mary said: "My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior....
The "Canticle of Mary" (the "Magnificat") is one of the greatest hymns of praise in the entire Bible. It really sums up all the hopes and dreams of the Old Testament and New Testament. Scripture scholars have pointed out that almost all the lines in the hymn may be found elsewhere in the Old Testament. In my estimation this feature points to the genius of Luke the Evangelist. He was able to distill the essence of the Old Testament and create something original, holy and meaningful for the New, and for all of us in need of hope! Although Mary gives thanks to God for what God has done for her, her thanksgiving is broader than that and encompasses the faith of ancient Israel and the new Christian community of faith with its roots in Judaism.
The power of God, working through humble humans, accomplishes great things. This is what we see when we gaze on the crib scene in our homes (and in whatever public places are left that will permit it!). This power is greater than any human power, but by becoming human, God acts through human means in the person of Jesus. This "empowerment" is celebrated in the birth of Jesus Christ! Only three more days left before we celebrate that anniversary of past, present and future! AMEN
[Note to my Beloved Congregation: Today is the 794th anniversary of the official foundation of the Order of Preachers - The Dominican Friars!]