Mary's Literal Words on Israel's Restoration from Luke Chapter Two

Chapter 5: For He That is Mighty Hath Done to Me Great Things (Luke 1:49)

The proclamation of Mary in Luke 1:49 encapsulates the essence of God's might: "For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name." This declaration emerges at a pivotal moment in Israel's history—announcing the birth of the world's Savior. Examining God's might reveals not just His power but also His commitment to His creation and the transformative acts He performs in the lives of His people at this time, Israel.

The biblical narrative is replete with instances demonstrating God's might. Exodus 32:11 depicts an intense moment when Moses intercedes on behalf of the Israelites after they sin by making a golden calf. The verse states, "And Moses besought the LORD his God, and said, LORD, why doth thy wrath wax hot against thy people, which thou hast brought forth out of the land of Egypt with great power, and with a mighty hand?" Here, Moses reminds God of His undeniable power displayed through the deliverance from Egypt. It serves as a reminder of God's capability to rescue, redeem, and guide His people, emphasizing that His might is not simply a demonstration of strength but an expression of His love and purpose.

Furthermore, Psalm 24:8 asks, "Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle." This verse paints a vivid image of God as a warrior, embodying strength unmatched. His might is not passive; it is engaged, actively fighting for justice and the welfare of His people. 

Psalm 78:65 states, "Then the Lord awaked as one out of sleep, and like a mighty man that shouteth by reason of wine." This metaphor illustrates moments when God's intervention transforms circumstances, igniting a revival of strength and purpose among His people. The psalmist captures a crucial shift where God, seemingly dormant, rises to act with renewed vigor, delivering His people from despair and conflict. 

Mary expresses profound gratitude and awe for the "great things" God has done, particularly through the miraculous conception of Jesus, the Messiah. In Luke 1:69-70, she praises God, stating, "And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David; As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began." This divine act fulfills longstanding prophecies that promised a Savior who would deliver Israel from oppression and reestablish righteousness among His people. The promise of the Messiah was not merely a distant hope but a tangible reality breaking into the world through Mary, affirming that God's faithfulness endures across generations. The announcement of Jesus' birth heralds the arrival of the "horn of salvation," a symbol of strength and victory, assuring Mary and all of Israel that their long-awaited deliverance from sin and death is at hand.

The prophetic words of Isaiah 9:6-7 amplify the significance of this moment, declaring, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." Isaiah foretells the transformative reign of this Messiah, emphasizing His divine authority and the peace He will usher in. 

Similarly, Jeremiah 23:5-6 proclaims, "Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth." These passages collectively illustrate not only the personal significance of Jesus' birth for Mary but also its monumental impact on the destiny of Israel and the entire world. Through her willingness to be the vessel for this miraculous event, Mary becomes a key figure in God's redemptive plan. In her heart and life, she embodies the fulfillment of prophecy—God has indeed done great things for her, establishing the Messiah who would bring salvation and hope to all.