"Magnificat"

"Magnificat" isn't just a term for every feline's sense of self. It is also the name traditionally given (based on the beginning of the Latin translation) to Mary's song, recorded in Luke 1:46-55. Here, in wonderful poetic expression, the mother of the Lord declared her marvel at God's redeeming work.

“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior” (Lk. 1:47-47, ESV). Thus the adoring heart responds to the infinite mercy, the awesome power, the incomparable divine condescension of the Incarnation. For while God’s kindness to her personally is overwhelming (vv.48-49), the greater part of the song dwells upon the broader scope of God’s saving might.

God reverses the power dynamics of this fallen world. He humbles the arrogant, for the power of tyrants is powerlessness compared to Him (vv.51-52). But He lifts up the lowly and blesses the poor (vv.52-53)—for God is compassionate and kind. His grace is particularly displayed in the context of His covenants (vv.54-55); God is at work redeeming a people for Himself. And the center of God’s mission is found in Christmas and Easter, in the saving life, death, resurrection, and reign of God the Son incarnate.

Advent puts the tyrants of this world on notice. Advent speaks hope to the poor and downtrodden. Advent proclaims that God is accomplishing His world-shaking purpose to put all things right, and establish a kingdom of life and light for all who will have Christ as Savior and Lord.

Let the souls of all the redeemed magnify the Lord, let our spirits rejoice in God our Savior—for the Almighty has done great things for us.