Fourth Monday of Advent – 22 December 2025
– You can ponder on the picture. For a method of praying with pictures click button below.
– You can pray on the words of Scripture. For methods of praying with scripture click button below.
– You can follow the suggestions in the daily ‘Reflection’.
– You can listen to the music
Today’s Scripture
Luke 1:46-56 ESV
Mary said,
‘My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,
for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.
For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
for he who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
And his mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts;
he has brought down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of humble estate;
he has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
as he spoke to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his offspring for ever.’
And Mary remained with Elizabeth about three months
Reflection
Perhaps the most famous song in history, ‘the Magnificat’, Mary’s song of praise on meeting her cousin Elizabeth, who, as the angel had told her, was indeed expecting a baby, too. A song rejoicing in the marvels which God has done not only in her life, but for His people, fulfilling His promises to their ancient ancestors. A song also of reversals. You are invited to read slowly through this prayer song noticing the many ways in which God reverses situations as He brings in His upside-down kingdom.
Which of these reversals and rejoicings speak most to you and to your situations just now? Perhaps have a conversation with God about these.
Today’s Music
My Soul Magnifies the Lord – Russian Orthodox Chant
O King whom all the peoples desire, you are the cornerstone which makes all one. O come and save man, whom you made from clay.
If you are finding this retreat helpful, then please consider sending us a donation towards the cost creating it and of putting it online.