During the Advent Season, our bulletins have been featuring artwork created by members of our congregation. The December 8 cover depicts the passage in the Bible known as the Magnificat.
Mary’s story begins as one of faith and obedience as we read Luke 1:35-38. But the reality of her situation would be disgrace, abandonment and hopelessness. (see outside border art).
Early Christian art used symbolism to convey meaning to an illustration. (See center art) As Mary arrives at Elizabeth’s door, she is carrying a bowl of chestnuts. Chestnuts were used to depict chastity; the fruit untouchable, protected by the thorny briars.
The Virgin Mary (center) is surrounded by the blooms of the columbine flower. Its blooms were thought to resemble doves and became the symbol for the Holy Spirit in early Christian art. The columbine has seven blooms and the Holy Spirit, seven gifts. Each flower is labeled with one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
At Mary’s feet are hyacinths and lily of the valley. They are meant to convey prudence, peace of mind, and purity.
The art story of Mary helps us look at the Scripture of the Magnificat: Luke 1:46-55. The Magnificat in Latin, or in English, The Song of Mary, describes Mary’s song after meeting her cousin Elizabeth who is also pregnant bearing the future John the Baptist. In the womb, John leaps and the movement is interpreted as Elizabeth being filled with the Holy Spirit. Elizabeth speaks of Mary as “blessed” and being a “fulfillment” of God’s promise. May the Magnificat art and worship give you a blessing and a fulfillment of God’s promise.
