What is God like? How would you describe God? Today's Scripture answers this question through two women: Hannah and the Virgin Mary. Hannah lived just before the time of King David. She is in anguish because she is unable to bear children. Hannah pours out her heart to the Lord and asks for what she desires. God sees Hannah's suffering and hears her voice. Some months later a son is born to her. In gratitude, Hannah offers this child to the Lord. Hannah's son would grow up to be the prophet Samuel. Hannah has the trust to ask God for what she wants.

After Mary encounters the angel Gabriel, she visits Elizabeth. Mary proclaims the Magnificat, a song that both describes and praises God. God is a God of justice, bringing down the proud and raising up the humble. God is a God of mercy, supporting the weak and feeding the hungry. God is a God of fidelity, true to the promises God has made to Israel. Mary's Magnificat (Lk 1:46-55) is similar to Hannah's song of gratitude (today's responsorial psalm 1 Sam. 2:1- 10) yet the Magnificat is even more personal. Mary trusts in God's power.

As we approach Christmas, Scripture invites us to trust in God's justice, mercy, fidelity and personal love for us.