LUKE 1:47-55

^46b My soul magnifies the Lord,
⁴⁷       and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
⁴⁸  for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.
Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
⁴⁹  for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
⁵⁰  His mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
⁵¹  He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
⁵²  He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
and lifted up the lowly;
⁵³  he has filled the hungry with good things,
and sent the rich away empty.
⁵⁴  He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
⁵⁵  according to the promise he made to our ancestors,
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”

• Light a candle to remember Christ’s presence with you.
• Sit five to fifteen minutes in silent meditation paying attention to the deep breath.
• What song is being born in you?
• How does this song reflect God’s faithfulness.
• What promise will God fulfill?
• What surprises you?
• What hope is being turned into joy?
• What mercy have you experienced?
• Give thanks to God for this time to recognize the song arising in you and for any new insights you have received.
• Share as you feel led in the reply box below.

Revised Common Lectionary Readings for Sunday, December 18, 2011, the Third Sunday of Advent Year B 
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16
Luke 1:47-55
Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26
Romans 16:25-27
Luke 1:26-38

If you use these prayers in other groups, please give credit to author.
Permission to use in not-for-profit settings The Rev. Lil Smith, M.Div., DASD