II Samuel 7:1-11, 16
When David was well established as the king of the United Kingdom and had built himself a magnificent palace to live in with his large family, he decided that he would build a house to honor God. He consulted with Nathan the prophet, who gave him approval, but God spoke to Nathan that night and rejected David’s plan, which Nathan had approved. God told Nathan the David’s job was to build the nation and another would build the house. Vs. 16 affirms the heritage of David as the house of Israel or the kingdom of Israel.
Luke 1:26-55
In Luke’s account of the birth of Jesus, his primary focus is upon Mary, where in Matthew there is strong focus on Joseph. Vs. 26 starts the story of the visitation of Mary by the angel Gabriel to tell of the forthcoming birth of a child to be named Jesus. Mary is greatly disturbed by the message as she and Joseph have not been together and they are only engaged, but not yet married.
Vs 32-33 tells of the greatness of this child and affirms that his kingdom will never end. The angel explains to Mary that the Holy Spirit would come upon her can conceive the child. His assurance to Mary is telling her that her cousin Elizabeth, who was thought to be barren is already in her sixth month. Vs 37 is a great truth: For nothing is impossible with God! With those words Mary then affirms that she accepts God’s plan.
Vss 39-45 tell of Mary’s visit to Elizabeth. After all, only Elizabeth can both confirm the news from the angel and understand Mary’s situation. Elizabeth acts as a prophet to Mary as she tells about her baby leaping within when Mary entered the house and asks why she is so blessed to have the mother of her Lord come to her house.
Vss. 40-55 is traditionally called, “The Magnificat.” It is also called “The Song of Mary.” It is a hymn that is similar to the Song of Hannah (I Samuel 2:1-10) after she learns that she who was thought to be barren is now going to have a child. It is a hymn of praise to God for his glory and for the honor of being chosen for service to God.
Romans 16:25-27
These closing verses in Paul’s letter to the Romans serve as a benediction, but also a commendation of the people to God who has revealed good news to those who once were not included in the covenant and good news. This good news is now revealed through Jesus Christ.