Advent II: December 22
Gospel: Luke 1:46-56
The Magnificat: Hymn of the Blessed Virgin Mary

St. Luke continues to recount the dialogue between the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Elizabeth during Mary’s visitation. Witnessing the divine graces God had worked in Elizabeth and reflecting on how God would further accomplish His redemptive plan through her, Mary offers this sublime hymn of praise to God.

If we attentively meditate on Mary’s canticle, we discern her defining virtue: she perpetually centres God, continually magnifying His Favor toward her. In this hymn—sung throughout the ages—the Blessed Mother fully manifests her love for God and humanity in her earthly journey, serving as both witness and model.

The Magnificat (Luke 1:46-50):
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has looked upon His lowly servant. From this day forward, all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is His name. His mercy extends from age to age to those who fear Him.” This passage illuminates God’s condescending love—seeking the free consent of those created in His image. Mary, stirred by the Holy Spirit’s grace, offers heartfelt praise, becoming for us a paragon of faith and surrender.

The Canticle Continues (Luke 1:51-52):
“He has shown strength with His arm, scattered the proud in their conceit, cast down the mighty from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly.” Here, God’s preferential love for the marginalized is revealed. This is an invitation to seek out the vulnerable, the poor, and the overlooked in our midst, embodying Christ’s own solidarity with the least.

The Final Strophe (Luke 1:53-55):
“He has filled the hungry with good things, sent the rich away empty, remembered His mercy toward Israel as promised to our ancestors—extending grace to Abraham and his heirs forever.” This affirms God’s faithful covenant love. Mary’s life, lived in steadfast fidelity to God’s will, models for us how to embrace our baptismal calling. Today, we are called to imitate her fidelity in fulfilling the mission entrusted to each by God.

In this sacred Advent season, let us quiet our hearts to hear God’s voice—speaking within our souls, pouring forth graces. By His boundless love, He strengthens us to live each day with purpose, preparing to welcome Christ’s coming anew.

Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God Incarnate, Mother Most Beloved, pray for us to the Lord. Amen.

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Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025