The Redemption of Jerusalem
Key Bible Passage:
And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from when she was a virgin, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem. (Luke 2:36-38)
Reflect:
Do you have any role models? How about military role models? All of my military role models are gifted in one way or another, but one thing they tend to have in common: passion.
In Luke 2 we encounter Anna, one of my role models from the Bible, who is passionate about God! Like Simeon, Anna is just arriving at the temple when Joseph and Mary arrive to dedicate Jesus, referred to here as “the redemption of Jerusalem.” Though we’re not given her specific words, she responds in praise much like Zechariah’s Song, Mary’s “Magnificat” and Simeon’s Song.
Notice some of Anna’s character qualities:
- Consistent: Anna has walked with God and in his house many years, even after loss.
- Worship-full: Anna is a worshipper, who fasts and prays round the clock.
- Thankful: Praise is on the tip of Anna’s tongue.
- Generous: Anna shares the good news of a redeemer with those hungry for God.
Anna’s life is characterized by continual prayer and readiness to share the good news.
Even at an advanced age, she’s using the energy God has given her for heavenly pursuits. Anna’s life begs the question of how and where I expend my God-given time and energy. Is my walk with God marked by consistency, worship, thankfulness, and generosity while being Christ-focused?
Respond:
- Think about Anna’s character qualities again. Is there an area you’d like to grow in?
