From Manger To Majesty
Miracles in Bethlehem

Mary's Song of Faith

Sunday December 17, 2023 - Pastor Wungreiso Valui

Luke 1:26-56

The Message:

When the Holy Spirit comes upon a person, nothing is impossible. Therefore, maintain a steadfast faith in God's word and the workings of the Holy Spirit.

Luke 1:37-38: For with God, nothing will be impossible. Then Mary said, "Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.

We gather to reflect upon the profound impact of the Holy Spirit in the unfolding miracle of Christmas. When The Holy Spirit descends upon a person, He opens the door to the extraordinary and makes the impossible possible.

The message is clear: Nothing is impossible when the Holy Spirit descends upon a person. This truth echoes the broader declaration that with God, indeed, nothing is impossible.

Let it be to me according to your word.
Mary's simplicity and humanity make it relatable and reflective of our stories. Simplicity can be a powerful tool for clarity and effectiveness without sacrificing substance or sophistication.

Mary's Song of Faith

Luke 1:46-47: And Mary said: "My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.

1. Mary's Song of Faith is an ever-evolving song of Salvation. I simply love this.
2. When the Holy Spirit descends, it stirs a response-a dance, a new tongue, a deep recognition of the Savior, a loud voice, or a song.
3. These manifestations are rooted in a profound acknowledgment of God.
4. My spirit has rejoiced in God, my savior." this is a testament that nothing is impossible when the Holy Spirit descends upon us.
5. The transformative journey of faith continues, as each response to the Holy Spirit adds another verse to the ever-evolving song of salvation.

Verse 48: For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed.

1. Mary shows us that by having and wanting nothing but God, even when you are poor, you can receive the riches of salvation.

Verse 49: For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name.

1. Everything that emanates from the hand of God is inherently magnificent.
2. Through holiness, we can perceive God more clearly than anything else.

Verse 50: And His mercy is on those who fear Him, From generation to generation.

1. When we fear God, we open ourselves to understanding His boundless generosity, kindness, and mercy, which can liberate us from the crippling fear and guilt that hold us captive.

Verse 51: He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.

1. God scatters the enemies and becomes an ally to those who follow Him.
2. He reassures us not to be afraid, saying, "I am with you."

Verse 52: He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly.

1. Jesus was born In the humble town of Bethlehem. In the eye of the world, a miracle-working prophet paled compared to the might of the Roman Empire. Despite his inconspicuous beginnings, Jesus was perceived as a threat from the moment of his birth. King Herod harbored intentions of eliminating him.
2. The rulers and scholars fell as Christ arrived, and we witnessed humble fishermen rising from the waters. Anyone who comes to Jesus is raised alongside him, carried to the shores of salvation.

Verse 53: He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty.

1. Being impoverished doesn't necessarily equate to being hungry, and wealth doesn't guarantee freedom from hunger.
2. The person who hungers and thirsts for righteousness may humbly kneel before God, acknowledging their sins and seeking forgiveness.
3. On the other hand, the rich in the heart might perceive themselves as righteous and expect God's blessings as though they are entitled to them.
4. However, God fills the hungry with good things, emphasizing that humility and a hunger for righteousness are what truly matter.

Verses 54-55: He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.

1. Your sin may be temporary, but mercy has always been around.
2. Our mistakes can be recent, but mercy is ancient. Even before we sought the Lord, He was seeking us out.
3. In memory of His mercy, which He promised in His covenant. God's mercy is what led to our redemption.

Verse 56: And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her house.

1. God blessed Mary with a kindred companion in her cousin Elizabeth, who could empathize with her experiences.
2. It's a testament to how God often provides someone who can relate to our unique situations.
3. In choosing Elizabeth as Mary's cousin, God provided a fitting companion for her journey.

Challenges:

• 1. Mary surrendered to God. Surrendering your plans and desires to God's will can pave the way for the extraordinary.
• 2. Mary believed in God's word. We should trust in God's promises as revealed in Scripture, knowing that nothing is too complicated for Him.
• 3. Mary sought the help of Elizabeth. Being part of a faith community and seeking support from fellow believers can bolster and encourage our faith.
• 4. Mary was patient, and she pondered the events in her heart. Be patient, knowing that God's timing is perfect. Continually seek to deepen your understanding of God's word and His ways.