The Magnificat of Mary is also found in Hannah's Canticle after the birth of her child in 1 Sam 1:11, 2: 1-10. It has such a significant revelation of God's immense and unconditional love for the whole humanity e.g. God's preferential love for the poor (anawim) being celebrated in Mary which was then expressed in the words and actions of Jesus.

Thus the Church is aware of her duty and responsibility to protect the poor, the voiceless in our society. This is well expressed in God's action in Jesus. Mary had this privilege to be witness of this salvific act of God.

As disciples of Jesus, we are challenged to express Magnificat in today's context. We are to be on the side of the anawim in our society and work for the liberation of the oppressed. So we join Mary in offering ourselves as we prepare to welcome Jesus in our hearts this Christmas, not only during this festive season but every day of our lives.

Let us take time to write our own Magnificat. May our lives be an act of continuation of Mary's Magnificat since we are called to continue Jesus' mission on earth.