AN AGED AND ALERT WIDOW -- Monday:
"And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem" (Luke 2:36-38).
When Jesus was born, some people surfaced who would otherwise have been unknown to us. They are associated only with the birth of Jesus. Prior to Christ coming into the world, we hear nothing of these people. And, following the events related to His birth, we hear nothing more of them. A prophetess named Anna is among this unique number of people. Although very few words are said about her, they are all very weighty. They also confirm the eyes of the Lord never overlook strong and believing souls.
Here are the things revealed about her. (1) Her name: Anna. (2) Her role: a prophetess. (3) Her father: Phanuel. (4) Her tribe: Asher. (5) Her marital status: a widow. (6) The length of her marriage: seven years. (7) The length of her widowhood: 84 years. (8) Where she resided: the temple. (9) What she did: served God with fastings and prayers night and day. (10) Her sensitivity to God: she gave thanks instantly. (11) Was quick to speak for the Lord: spake of Him. (12) She knew those who were looking for the Savior: spake of Him to All them who looked for redemption in Jerusalem. I would venture to say there are not many people concerning which so much can be said, or is known.
We do not know how old Anna was when she was married, for her husband died after seven years. We know Anna was not wanton, but devoted herself to the Lord for the rest of her life, something few are even capable of doing. Some believe she was 84 years old, but there is strong evidence that the 84 refers to the length of time she had been a widow. That being the case, she was considerably over 100 years of age. But you would never know this by her activity. She did not leave the Temple, but constantly served the Lord with fastings and prayers–and was a prophetess besides.
If you imagine life has been cruel to you, and you are lonely–think of Anna. If you think you are too old to serve the Lord–think of Anna. If you do not have enough to do throughout the day–think of Anna. If you think there is nothing to do for God–think of Anna. If you have not made it your business to develop a relationship with the people of God–think of Anna. If you are slow to see what the Lord is doing–think of Anna!
Thank God for Anna! Praise the Lord for her faithfulness! Give glory to God for her sensitivity, zeal, and alertness. She stands as a notable example for us all–one of the very few people who knew precisely when the Word became flesh, and was afforded the privilege of seeing the Holy child.
PRAYER POINT: Father, I want to be classified with noble spirits like Anna. In the precious name of Jesus, I ask for grace to avail myself of the blessings You have given that will make that desire come true.
Tuesday, New Series: THE CURRENT REIGN OF JESUS