Introduction
The Magnificat Reflection according to the Gospel of Luke contains the text of Mary’s praise of God as she visits her cousin Elizabeth.
The Gospel Account
After the Angel Gabriel announces that Mary will conceive Jesus, she travels to the hill country to visit her cousin Elizabeth.
You can find the story of Mary’s Magnificat in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 1, verses 46-55.
Click on this link to view the Gospel passage using the New American Bible translation.
The Five Decades
When you pray the five decades of this Rosary Reflection, use these five moments from Mary’s prayer in the Gospel. Read the Gospel verses for each decade and let the words sink in as you pray that decade.
First Decade: Mary Rejoices in God (Luke 1:46-47)
And Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior.
Second Decade: Mary Recalls God’s Blessing (Luke 1:48-49)
For he has looked upon his handmaid’s lowliness; behold, from now on will all ages call me blessed. The Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.
Third Decade: Mary Recalls God’s Mercy (Luke 1:50-51)
His mercy is from age to age to those who fear him. He has shown might with his arm, dispersed the arrogant of mind and heart.
Fourth Decade: Mary Recalls God’s Justice (Luke 1:52-53)
He has thrown down the rulers from their thrones but lifted up the lowly. The hungry he has filled with good things; the rich he has sent away empty.
Fifth Decade: Mary Recalls God’s Faithfulness (Luke 1:53-54)
He has helped Israel his servant, remembering his mercy, according to his promise to our fathers, to Abraham and to his descendants forever.
What to Remember
This Gospel story shows how Mary realizes God’s presence and action in Jewish history and praises God for that wonderful work.
Jesus gave His Mother Mary to all His disciples. As a follower of Jesus, you have the privilege of praying to Mary and following her example of praising God. God’s joy, blessing, mercy, justice, and faithfulness are present and active in your life and the lives of others.
When you listen to the words of this Gospel passage and take those words to heart, you grow towards a deeper realization that our best response to God’s action in our lives is to give praise and glory to God.
What to Pray For
Here are a few intentions to pray for:
- For greater joy in God’s presence and love in your life.
- For deeper admiration of God’s blessing, mercy, justice, and faithfulness to all of creation.
- For greater awareness in the Church of Mary’s prayers and help in time of need.
- For a greater commitment to practice justice and mercy to others you encounter today.
Feel free to pray the rosary using this Gospel when you want more connection with Mary, her love for God, and her love for you.
When This Gospel Appears
Luke’s Gospel account of the Magnificat occurs in the Gospel reading during various Marian Feast days, such as on the Feast of the Assumption of Mary, on August 15. The latest appearance is August 15, 2021, The Feast of the Assumption of Mary.
* Scripture passages are from the United Conference of Catholic Bishops website, https://usccb.org/bible
