He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
and lifted up the lowly; (Luke 1:52)

This verse continues Mary’s statement of faith in God. Like its Old Testament counterpart, Hannah’s canticle in 1 Sam 2, Mary’s faith is remarkable. The Magnificat also looks forward to the great overturning that happens through Jesus outlined in this Gospel. What is the context? The Jewish people are diminished, conquered by Rome. Where is hope? There is faith in a salvation in this life. The rich and powerful will get their comeuppance and, again like the Old Testament, the poor, the widow and the stranger will be cared for.

This passage resonates with young people’s sense of justice. They see what needs to be changed – but isn’t. Consequently, they can lose hope. It is our task to help them to grasp Mary’s faith that God will work in the hearts of people to ensure that, however slowly, those in need are taken care of. And, that it starts with me

Have a great week!
Patrick