Mary's Song: Mercy in the Christmas Story
Before angels filled the sky, before shepherds ran to the manger, before wise men arrived with gifts - there was Mary’s Song.
Often called the Magnificat, Mary’s Song (Luke 1:46–55) is the very first response to the news of Jesus’ coming. Spoken by a young girl from an overlooked village, it’s a bold declaration that Christmas is far more than a peaceful story. It is the ultimate enactment of God’s mercy, justice and faithfulness.
Mary rejoices that God’s mercy is breaking into the world “from generation to generation.” Christmas is the moment this mercy takes on flesh. Jesus - born not in a palace but in poverty - is God stepping into human life to bring hope, forgiveness and restoration.
Mary recognises her own humble position, yet God chooses her to carry His Son. Her song reminds us that God sees those the world overlooks. At Christmas, this truth becomes visible as Jesus is born among the poor, welcomed first by shepherds, and identified with the vulnerable from the very beginning.
Mary announces that God is turning things upside down:
- The powerful brought low.
- The humble lifted high.
- The hungry filled.
- The rich sent away empty.
Christmas is the acting out of this great reversal - the plan of God revealed for setting the world right.
Mary connects Jesus’ birth to God’s ancient promises. Christmas is not an isolated event; it’s God keeping His word, fulfilling centuries of hope, and drawing close to His people again.
Putting Mary’s song into practice this Christmas
Here are some ways our churches and each of us individually can live out mercy this Christmas:
1: See the overlooked:
Mary celebrates a God who notices the humble. This Christmas, we can reflect that character by intentionally seeing those who are often unseen.
- Invite someone spending Christmas alone to share a meal.
- Check in on an elderly neighbour.
- Notice the person on the edge of your church gathering and sit with them.
2: Fill the hungry:
Mary’s words remind us that God cares deeply about physical needs. Churches can help ensure no one goes hungry this Christmas:
- Partner with or donate to your local foodbank.
- Share Christmas dinner boxes or hampers with those struggling.
- Open up your home and welcome people in to join you at your dinner table.
3: Challenge injustice:
Mary’s Song is a declaration that God is reversing unjust systems and lifting up the poor.
We echo this when we:
- Advocate for those facing unfair housing situations, benefits delays or unsafe conditions.
- Offer support through debt advice or budgeting help.
- Stand with those whose voices aren’t usually heard.
As we celebrate Christmas, may Mary’s Song shape our joy and our generosity - helping us welcome Jesus not only in carols and family traditions, but in acts of mercy and justice.