It is of the greatest significance that Mary did not sing her Magnificat in the presence of the angel Gabriel. Even though her heart must have been filled with incredible joy and peace, she did not immediately praise the Lord in song.

She left immediately to visit her relative Elizabeth, and that visit resulted in a mutual sharing of great joy. According to Luke's very perceptive account, it was only in sharing her joy that Mary could praise the Lord for all the great things He had done.

The message is clear. In sharing what we have received from God - our faith, hope, love and every other grace - we attain an even greater appreciation of God's gift and are enabled to be more grateful and express our gratitude with great praise.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord.

My spirit rejoices in God, my Saviour.

Mary's soul and spirit, that is to say, her whole being, joyfully proclaims the greatness of God, especially for the great work of our salvation, which has now begun at the Annunciation.