https://store.upperroom.org:443/contributors/john-a-stromanJohn A. Stroman is a teacher and writer in Tallahassee, Florida. He served as a United Methodist pastor for 40 years, including being senior pastor at Pasadena Community Church, St. Petersburg. Stroman holds a doctorate in theology from Boston University School of Theology.https://store.upperroom.org:443/product/singing-mary-s-song-3<p>Soon after the angel Gabriel announced to Mary the astonishing news that she would bear the long-awaited Messiah, Mary went to visit her cousin Elizabeth, who was also expecting a child.</p> <p>As Mary greeted Elizabeth, the child in Elizabeth's womb (John the Baptist) leaped inside her. Elizabeth exclaimed to Mary, "God has blessed you among all women. Why do I have this honor, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?"</p> <p>Mary responded by singing a song of praise to God, commonly known as the Magnificat.</p> <p>Her song, recorded in Luke 1:46-55, was not a sweet lullaby sung in anticipation of the baby Jesus' birth, Stroman says. Instead, it was a message of deliverance and hope.</p> <p>Mary's song proclaimed deliverance and hope to a dark and fearful world. It continues to bring challenge and hope to us today.</p> <p><em>Singing Mary's Song</em> provides scripture readings, meditations, and prayers for each day of Advent. Each week's readings focus on various lines of Mary's song. Reflection questions are included each week.</p> <p>This Advent study will give you new insight into the life of Mary. Listen closely to Mary's song and discover its message for you today. A great study for individuals or groups!</em></p>Sat, 14 May 2022 00:44:34 GMThttps://store.upperroom.org:443/product/singing-mary-s-song-3