Luke 1:51-53 (NIVUK)
51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
I suspect we would all say that we believe in fairness and equality. This sense comes from being made in God’s image, although like in all aspects this has become somewhat warped to generally mean fairness when it works for our benefit. In these verses, Mary sings of her recognition that God acts to lift up those who have been abused, or are hungry, or are disadvantaged in someway – his sense of fairness is framed in serving and benefiting others. Although it could be interpreted as such, I don’t believe her song is saying that God acts against those that have to benefit those who do not, rather, he acts to bring down those who gain their positions and status at the expense of others.
Father, help me not just to talk about justice, but to act for justice, especially for those who are abused, disadvantaged and vulnerable.
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