Monday of the Fourth Week of Advent, December 22, 2025

Gospel

Luke 1:46-56

Mary said:

“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord;

my spirit rejoices in God my savior.

for he has looked upon his lowly servant.

From this day all generations will call me blessed:

the Almighty has done great things for me,

and holy is his Name.

He has mercy on those who fear him

in every generation.

He has shown the strength of his arm,

and has scattered the proud in their conceit.

He has cast down the mighty from their thrones

and has lifted up the lowly.

He has filled the hungry with good things,

and the rich he has sent away empty.

He has come to the help of his servant Israel

for he remembered his promise of mercy,

the promise he made to our fathers,

to Abraham and his children for ever.”

Mary remained with Elizabeth about three months

and then returned to her home.

Reflection

The Magnificat represents God’s greatness revealed through Mary's willingness to listen and obey. Mary's words are not spoken from a place of self-importance but from deep humility and trust..."My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior for he has looked upon his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name".

This Gospel reminds me of a priest's homily I listened to Sunday. He mentioned obedience being the most difficult vow a priest takes. He spoke of how true obedience requires listening, and true listening demands humility. This follows as one cannot hear God’s will clearly while clinging to pride or control. Mary embodies this truth perfectly. Her openness to God allowed her not only to hear His plan but to surrender to it completely and we can see this clearly in the Magnificat. It makes me wonder, do we truly listen for God’s voice, or are we too busy asserting our own plans?