Children’s Sermon

Luke 1:39-55

Magnify Your Joy

Object suggested: Magnifying glass and objects to view through the glass.

Christmas is coming and we celebrate the birth of Jesus. Christmas is also a time to think about his mother, Mary.

Mary was chosen by God to be the mother of our Lord, Jesus Christ. What a special honor.

Mary felt blessed to be chosen to give birth to this special child and she said, “My soul magnifies the Lord” (1:46). “My spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior…” (1:47). What do you think this means?

Let’s start by talking about the word, “magnify.” Perhaps we can understand what Mary meant by looking through a magnifying glass. What happens? Yes, things appear to be bigger. You can see things more clearly. You can see things that you are unable to see without the magnifying glass. (During this time ask the kids what they notice as they view various objects.)

Now think about what Mary might have meant when she said, “My soul magnifies the Lord…” Mary was grateful and gave thanks. Others could see her joy. She magnified God’s love so others could see God’s love more clearly.

Think about what it would feel like if each one of us could say, “My soul magnifies the Lord” and “my spirit has rejoiced in God my savior…” As you receive God’s love, the love of your family and friends, and see the beautiful things in God’s world, take time to feel that joy and give thanks. Magnify your joy!

Scripture quotations from the World English Bible