Who determined that Mary’s status was low? Who determines that anyone’s status is low? Is that a human judgment or a divine one?
For sure, God knows when humans have devalued one another, but God does not quantify or delineate between people like people do. Right?
Yet what people determine about other people is significant. It’s just not divine. Or eternal. So, God can choose people as God pleases. God need not be democratic or equal.
God is always loving, but love does not seek equality. Love seeks justice. That is part of what Mary’s song is all about.
Luke 1:48-50
[Mary’s song continued:]
He has looked with favor on the low status of his servant. Look! From now on, everyone will consider me highly favored because the mighty one has done great things for me. Holy is his name. He shows mercy to everyone, from one generation to the next, who honors him as God.
Micah 5:2-4
As for you, Bethlehem of Ephrathah, though you are the least significant of Judah’s forces, one who is to be a ruler in Israel on my behalf will come out from you. His origin is from remote times, from ancient days. Therefore, he will give them up until the time when she who is in labor gives birth. The rest of his kin will return to the people of Israel. He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. They will dwell secure, because he will surely become great throughout the earth;
Prayer
God,
As I begin this new day, I am reminded that you do not see as the world sees. Looking beyond what is apparent and into the heart, your judgment is much more just than mine. So search me, God, and know my heart; shape it to reflect your love and truth. About myself. About others. About the world. May my thoughts, words, and actions flow from a heart surrendered to yours. Help me to walk humbly, serve joyfully, and love sincerely, knowing you are with me all along.
By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.