Mary Knew

Mary, did you know that your baby boy

Would one day walk on water?

Mary, did you know that your baby boy

Would save our sons and daughters?

Did you know that your baby boy

Has come to make you new?

This child that you delivered, will soon deliver you...

Mary Did You Know, Mark Lowry

The writer of the song, “Mary Did You Know?” says of the lyrics, “I just tried to put into words the unfathomable. I started thinking of the questions I would have for her if I were to sit down & have coffee with Mary." The song, released in 1991, was made popular again in 2012 by CeeLo Greene. I have to be honest: I don’t like the song. I like the arrangement, but the words fall short for me because I believe that Mary knew... When we read the Luke’s Gospel, it is clear from the angel’s announcement to Mary’s song, that Mary did know the magnitude of the life within. A survey of the Gospels, especially the Wedding at Cana and Mary’s presence at the Cross demonstrates that Mary knew way more than we give her credit for. I prefer an alternate version of the song written by Jennifer Henry questioning Mary about whether she recognized the magnitude of her impact through the centuries.

Mary did you know,

that your ancient words

would still leap off our pages?

Mary did you know,

that your spirit song

would echo through the ages?

Did you know that your holy cry

would be subversive word,

that the tyrants would be trembling

when they know your truth is heard?

Mary Knew, Jennifer Henry

Pastor Donna Olivia Owusu-Ansah