Luke 1:26–38, 46–55
As we continue our Advent at the Art Museum sermon series, we turn our attention to one of the most intimate and courageous moments in scripture: Mary’s encounter with the angel Gabriel and her soaring declaration of faith known as the Magnificat. The word Magnificat comes from the Latin phrase magnificat anima mea Dominum, meaning “my soul magnifies the Lord.” It is Mary’s song of praise, spoken from a place of deep vulnerability and astonishing trust.
In Luke 1:26–38, Mary stands before the unknown. A young woman from an unremarkable town, she is suddenly greeted by an angel and invited into God’s redemptive plan. The angel’s first words—“Do not be afraid”—recognize the fear that rises in moments of disruption. And this message disrupts much-her life and the power forces of the Empire and ultimately the world. Yet the angel also assures her: she is favored, she is seen, and God is with her. Mary responds not with hesitation but with courageous surrender: “Let it be with me according to your word.”
Mary’s Song follows as a bold proclamation of God’s justice, mercy, and reversal of the world’s injustices. It is the song of someone who has welcomed God’s presence—even in uncertainty—and found her voice strengthened rather than silenced.
Today, as we welcome Bishop Luis Andrés Caicedo of the Iglesia Metodista de Colombia, Mary’s story invites us to sharpen our senses of hospitality. Like Mary, we are called to create space for the stranger, the guest, the unexpected visitor. Guests are not to be feared—the angel’s “Fear not” echoes still.
Bishop Caicedo is in Ohio for the Annual Gala of Footprints with Hope, a ministry empowering displaced communities in rural Colombia through sustainable projects: women’s economic development, clean water initiatives, and community outreach. Our Hyde Park Community UMC mission team visited one of these sites in July, connecting with both this ministry and Bishop Caicedo’s Hope Methodist Church in the Flor del Campo barrio. Today we also welcome the Footprints with Hope founder and director, Rachael Ferguson, who serves as the Bishop’s translator. Bishop will be presiding at the Communion Table at all three of our worship services.
As Advent unfolds, may Mary’s courage, her song, and her hospitality inspire us to welcome Christ—and every guest—in faith and love.
Pastor Todd