Sermon
Mary's Song
Theme
Singing joyful praise to God
Object
An Advent wreath
Scripture
And Mary said: "My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me -- holy is his name." Luke 1:46-49 (NIV
Activities + Resources
Today is the fourth Sunday of Advent, the last Sunday before we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Hasn't it been a wonderful time of celebration? We have had parties, parades, exchanged Christmas cards, decorated our homes, and bought gifts to exchange with friends and family. Do you know what I like most about this season? The music! What is your favorite Christmas song? Is it "Joy to the World?" "Silent Night?" "Away in a Manger?" Or perhaps it is one of the many other songs we sing to express our love for the Saviour and the joy he brings. Whatever your favorite Christmas song may be, I don't think there is any better way to express the love and joy we feel during this season than through music.
The Bible tells us that after the angel appeared to Mary telling her that she was to be the mother of the Savior of the world, she hurried to the home of her cousin Elizabeth. She just couldn't wait to tell someone. When Elizabeth heard the news, she exclaimed: "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!"
Mary was so happy that she broke into joyful praise to God and, even though she probably didn't actually sing, her words have come to be known as "Mary's Song" and have been set to music by many composers. This is what Mary said:
On this, the fourth Sunday of Advent, we light the candle of love. Let us join Mary in praise to God for he has done great things for us. He has sent us the gift of love, his only begotten Son, that we might have eternal life.
Father, we are thankful for your gift of love. We rejoice with Mary for the great things you have done for us. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.
