I awoke very early this morning with Mary’s magnificat on my heart: “My soul doth magnify the Lord; and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior…..For He that is Mighty hath done for me great things; and holy is His name.” Luke 1: 46-50 KJV.
Mary spoke this after the angel visited her and told her that the Holy Spirit would come upon her and overshadow her and that she would supernaturally give birth to a Son. Of course this refers to a specific event in history – the birth of Jesus. But as followers of Jesus, and as those who walk in daily relationship with Him; we should be in a position to be overshadowed with His glorious presence. And from that place of divine intimacy – there should come from us something of substance that will give life to those around us.
John 15 talks clearly about abiding in the Vine. Specifically, verse 2 says that if we bear fruit; He purges us so that we can bring forth more fruit. To “bring forth” here means “to “carry. Mary carried some precious Fruit in her womb that brought Life to the world! And as we abide in His presence, we are called to carry fruit within us that will bless the lives of those around us.
After Mary received the word from the angel she went to the house of Elisabeth, and there was a confirmation of God’s word to her! Luke 1:41 says that when Mary greeted Elizabeth and Elizabeth heard Mary’s voice – she was filled with the Holy Ghost! And then Elizabeth responded to Mary, confirming what the angel had said!
As you spend time with Him and He deposits something of substance into your spirit; and then you leave that place of intimacy and walk in relationship with others – not only will He confirm what He is doing in you – but He will cause it to spill over into others lives! It will cause new life to be deposited into them as well!
At this precious season of the year, as you reflect on the miracle of Christmas, I wonder if you realize that Jesus wants to divinely overshadow you with more of His life and fullness? And as you spill over into the lives of others, do you know He wills that you go about confirming His word and influencing many with a taste of heaven? Mary gave birth to a Living Savior. As you behold Him, what are you giving birth to?
I love this notion of “what’s leaping in your womb?” I pray that what is being birthed is a new ministry. Like childbirth, there is great work (no pun intended) but the results are glorious. Thanks Helen, for posting this. Thank you, Abba, for teaching us what it means to be a midwife.