Waiting for Redemption
Luke 2:36 – There was also a prophetess, Anna the daughter of Panuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old, having been married to her husband for seven years until his death. 37 – She had lived as a widow since then for eighty-four years. She never left the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day.
Verse 38 – At that moment, she came up to them and began to give thanks to God and to speak about the child to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.
She never left the temple. She was always worshiping. According to Paul in 1 Corinthians 7:34 – An unmarried woman or a virgin is concerned about the things of the Lord, to be holy both in body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the things of the world, how to please her husband. 35 – I am saying this for your benefit, not to place a limitation on you, but so that without distraction you may give notable and constant service to the Lord.
Anna was previously married for a brief seven years until her husband’s death and then she chose to live as a widow and never re-married. She dedicated her life to giving “notable and constant service to the Lord.” – This was her conviction and decision and she, with all those in her presence, were blessed by the words given to her of thanksgiving to God and her prophetic insights about the child Jesus.
Everyone present at the temple that day, listening to Anna, were waiting for redemption. Whether you are at home or at church or at work, or wherever you are, let us keep Jesus in our hearts as we wait for redemption. Not all of us have chosen Anna’s lifestyle, but we can all choose to worship God and talk about Jesus.
Christmas is a great opportunity to talk about Jesus and His plan to deliver the world. May it draw our families together in the midst of a fear-ravaged world. May the story of Jesus rekindle love, anticipation, and hope for deliverance and redemption.
Merry Christmas!
Where two are gathered 