Mary’s Path to a Grateful Heart

“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my savior” (Luke 1:46-47).  

Mary’s Magnificat

These opening lines of the Canticle of Mary (the Magnificat) manifest Mary’s interior disposition, flowing from her spirit of humility and gratitude. Her song of praise can inspire us to strive to enhance each moment through our own humility and gratitude.  

The Interconnected Virtues of Gratitude and Humility

The virtue of gratitude is best described as a thankful disposition of mind and heart. Humility is a recognition that all one’s gifts come from God, as well as an appreciation of the gifts of others. It is easy to see how these virtues are interconnected, and together they enable us to live more fully and freely. They also safeguard us from the ugly negative disposition that accompanies a prideful and ungrateful heart. Instead of living each day focused on how the world owes us, the person with a grateful, humble heart lives in the footsteps of Mary and says, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my savior.”  

Cultivating a Humble and Grateful Heart

Of course, this doesn’t happen overnight and requires the daily pursuit of cultivating virtues in response to God’s grace. Each day provides opportunities for us to be humble and actively look for the good in other people. The humble person welcomes opportunities for self-knowledge and is grateful for realizing the truth of not being the “creator of the universe” or even the desire to be exalted. They recognize the gifts God has given to them and others and joyfully thank Him.  

Following Mary’s Example in Daily Life

In the coming days, I encourage you to be aware of the opportunities each day to walk in the footsteps of Mary. She, who is full of grace, will intercede for you and guide you. With Mary, our eyes are opened to see God’s goodness, and we can readily respond to her words, “Do whatever He tells you.” Our humble and grateful disposition enables us to fill our “jugs” with water so God can change them into wine. And we, too, can say, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lod, my spirit rejoices in God my savior.”