Sunday December 22, 2024 

                                                         

Micah 5: 2-4 
Psalm 80: 1-7 
Hebrews 10: 5-10 
Luke 1: 39-55

The word of the Lord that came to Micah of Moresheth concerned the war between Samaria and Jerusalem. The destruction caused by this war created within Micah a yearning for peace. He saw that the effects of the war were disastrous for the people living in those towns. Micah’s prophesy of those times of war, as practised by the wicked rulers in Samaria and Jerusalem, caused Micah to profess words that inspired one of the most beautiful songs in the bible — The Magnificat. This song is repeated in many churches around the world. It echoes the prayer of Micah for peace in the world and foresees the One Who will set God’s people free. 

We recall the beginning of the Magnificat: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour for He has looked with favour on the lowliness of His servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed for the mighty One has done great things for me and Holy is His Name. His mercy is for those who fear Him from generation to generation….” 

Undoubtedly, Micah’s prophesy, recalled in Mary’s beautiful song, resounds in the hearts of all of God’s children here on earth. 

And now we wait with this lovely young girl, Mary, as she waits in silence for the fulfilment of God’s word — the birth of her son, The Messiah.

– Beulah Walcott