Joy is relational and not circumstantial. This week we look at Mary's Song of Praise. What does this "song" mean? Why did Mary write it? How can you experience joy regardless of your circumstances? That's this week's focus. We need community; we need a relationship with our heavenly father. We'll unpack Mary's relationship with Elizabeth and look at Mary's surrender and trust in God as a source of joy.

A Family Christmas 

Mary's Joy 

Luke 1:39-56 ESV

Is there a difference between happiness and joy? If so, what is the difference?  

39 In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, 40 and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41 And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, 42 and she exclaimed with a loud cry, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! 43 And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord."  

46 And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; 49 for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. 50 And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. 51 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts; 52 he has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate; 53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, 55 as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his offspring forever." 

56 And Mary remained with her about three months and returned to her home. (Lk 1:39–56) 

The Character of Mary's Joy 

The difference between circumstantial happiness and relational joy 

[1] Sincere CONFIDENCE  

[2] A genuine FAITH  

[3] IDENTITY in God's story 

[4] Expressive GENEROSITY  

How does Mary's story impact my story?