The Book of Revelation was never intended to frighten us with tales about the end of the world but to encourage those undergoing persecution and oppression. The woman clothed with the sun and her child symbolizes God's final victory over evil. It is a message we need to hear today - evil and negativity seem overwhelming. Where is God? But the story assures us that although the struggle may be long and arduous and it may appear that evil is getting the upper hand sometimes, there is only one outcome: justice, truth, and love will prevail. We must not lose heart, regardless of what happens around us. God is in charge. We must live in patience, faith, and hope, and Mary is a perfect example of these qualities.

Mary's Magnificat reveals to us a strong woman of faith rather than someone shy and meek. Her faith is in the God of Israel, not the status quo or the 'way things are'. Her God is a God of justice, mercy, and change. She praises God for what God is about to do. He is going to pull down the mighty and arrogant from their powerful thrones and exalt the lowly as well as feed the hungry and send away the self-satisfied. Human societies do not always reflect justice, equality, or compassion. For this reason the true presence of God usually turns our world upside down - that is one reason that so many people shut God out. God is not about power or privilege. God's love does more than comfort - it transforms. Each day we have opportunities to bring this love into a broken and fearful world.