Daily Bread

1. Blessed is she who has believed (39-45)

After hearing the angel Gabriel, Mary visited her relative Elizabeth's home. Pre-born baby John the Baptist leaped for joy. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Elizabeth recognized Mary as blessed and her child as blessed. The child in Mary was the Lord. Blessed are those who believe God's promises.

2. My soul glorifies the Lord (46-56)

Mary's soul and spirit broke out in praises to God her Savior. God was mindful of her humble state. All generations would call her blessed, for the Holy and Mighty One had done great things for her and for Israel. What had God done? Read verses 51-55, which describe God's activity. God scatters the proud but lifts up the humble who trust in him. God is merciful to those who fear him. He helps the weak and needy. God keeps his promises.

Prayer: God our Savior, great is your mercy, which we do not deserve. Faithful you are to your promises. May our souls rejoice in who you are and what you have done, are doing and will do in Jesus' name. Amen.

One Word: Praise God for who he is and what he has done