Today, we explore another Lukan canticle used in the Daily Office. Celebrating Common Prayer reminds us that “centering the day around these Lukan canticles is what more than anything else, gives the person who prays the office a sense of participating in the continuing work of God.” The canticle assigned to evening prayer is Mary’s Magnificat. It is found in Luke 1.46.55:
Mary said, “With all my heart I glorify the Lord! In the depths of who I am I rejoice in God my savior. He has looked with favor on the low status of his servant. Look! From now on, everyone will consider me highly favored because the mighty one has done great things for me. Holy is his name. He shows mercy to everyone, from one generation to the next, who honors him as God. He has shown strength with his arm. He has scattered those with arrogant thoughts and proud inclinations. He has pulled the powerful down from their thrones and lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty-handed. He has come to the aid of his servant Israel, remembering his mercy, just as he promised to our ancestors, to Abraham and to Abraham’s descendants forever.”
Prayer Focus: How can Mary’s song remind you that God can and will use even the most unexpected people? How can this encourage you to consider how God might be inviting you to serve in new and unexpected ways? Pray Mary’s prayer each evening at the end of your day.
