Chapter 1: My Soul Doth Magnify the Lord (Luke 1:46)

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In the Book of Luke, the words of Mary, who is a jewish woman under the laws of Moses (Luke 1:46-55) serve as a profound declaration of worship and adoration, specifically of Jesus Christ, Israel's Messiah. This chapter appears at a great moment on God's prophetic timeline, heralding the arrival of Jesus Christ to Israel alone in the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John through Mary as a chosen vessel. The context of her praise not only reflects her personal response to divine revelation but also resonates deeply within the framework of the Old Testament, illuminating a rich tapestry of faithfulness and promise that spans centuries.

Mary's words open with, "My soul doth magnify the Lord." Here, magnifying the Lord implies an active engagement in lifting God up from the very pit of the soul, acknowledging His greatness, and propelling the focus on His attributes and his prophetic achievements done for Israel in the past, and echoing the prophecies of what is to come for Israel in the future. 

This echoes the sentiments found throughout the Psalms, where the act of worship often involves declaring the glory and supremacy of God. For instance, Psalm 34:3 states, "O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together." This expression of worship finds a parallel in Mary's personal testimony. Psalm 69:30 states that he would "magnify him with thanksgiving." About the Kingdom, God says to Ezekiel, "Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the Lord." (Ezekiel 38:23)

In the time leading up to the Great Tribulation, when many of the Little Flock of Israel will face trials and hardships, the importance of magnifying God becomes even more pronounced. The Great Tribulation is recognized in biblical prophecy as a period of intense suffering and spiritual warfare (see Matthew 24:21-22). In such times, those believers are called to remember the supernatural prophetic works of the Lord to that holy nation—His faithfulness to His people throughout history. Mary's declaration in Luke Chapter 1 serves as a reminder that magnifying God amidst adversity provides a steadfast anchor for the soul. Especially for those who will be going through the Great Tribulation in such manner, mainly the Little Flock of Israel, God's faithful remnant (Luke 12:32).

Further back in the Old Testament, we see echoes of Mary's praise in the songs of Hannah (1 Samuel 2:1-10) and the prophetic declarations of Isaiah. Hannah, much like Mary, finds herself in a troubling personal situation yet bursts forth in praise, exalting the glory of God. This demonstrates a lineage of faith that points to the consistency of worship, even in the face of despair. Isaiah 12:4-5 captures this essence as it encourages the people of Israel to give thanks and make known His deeds among the nations.

As Mary praises God not only for His past operation but also for His present intervention, she sets a foundation for a worshipful heart that acknowledges both the blessings and challenges that lie ahead for her and the Little Flock. In her proclamation, she not only foreshadows personal trials but also speaks to the collective struggles of Israel. 

In summary, Mary's declaration intricately connects her words to the profound promises and prophecies that God has already communicated throughout Scripture. Her words resonate with the statements made by figures such as Moses, King David, and Isaiah, who spoke of God's intentions to establish His Kingdom and restore Israel. Just as Moses proclaimed God's guidance and fidelity in leading His people from bondage (Exodus 15:1-18), Mary echoes this theme of deliverance from Great Tribulation.

Similarly, David, in his psalms, exalts God for His mighty works (Psalm 89:1-4), while Isaiah elaborates on God's redemptive plan for Israel, culminating in the vision of a coming Messiah (Isaiah 9:6-7). Mary's praise is not merely a personal or spiritual expression of gratitude; it is a praise for the literal fulfillment of God's overarching prophetic narrative, plan and purpose for earthly dominion since Genesis 1:1, linking her knowledge of the scriptures and praise of them, to the prophetic promises of the past, about preparations for the future of the nation she's in. 

Through her words, she proclaims the inauguration of God's Kingdom, the realization of His promises, and the hope of restoration for Israel, reminding all that God will do as he said, his Word will be fulfilled and all God has promised in his Prophecy program will come to pass.

Mary's Literal Words on Israel's Restoration from Luke Chapter TwoWhere stories live. Discover now