Storyline: Anna, the Prophetess

There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher.  She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was 84.  She never left the temple, but worshipped night and day, fasting and praying.  Coming up to (Mary and Joseph) at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. 

Luke 2:36-38.

As we look to a new year, it is quite appropriate that we return to our theme (Storyline: What’s Your Story) with that of the prophetess, Anna.  The words written here are all we know of Anna, but they are enough.  Remember, our goal as we look at these diverse women of Scripture is to learn some truth of application for our own transformation.  It doesn’t take more than a verse or two to inspire exactly that.  Here are some of the facts we can pull out of this passage:

1)        Anna was a prophetess.  In the biblical sense, she was a truth-teller, not necessarily one who foretold the future. However, we do catch a glimpse that Anna believed what she’d been taught of God’s Word, enough to know that there was One to come who would be the “redemption of Jerusalem.”  Anna spoke truth that would encourage hopefulness in the future of her people.  She pointed them to Jesus!

2)       She was from a Northern tribe (Asher), which meant somehow, though her people had been dispersed to Assyria under the siege, she returned.  Anna was a survivor.

3)       At one time Anna had been married.  Though widowed at a very young age (young enough to re-marry and still of child-bearing age), she intentionally chose a life of dedication to the Lord.  She probably lived at the temple, spent her days living out her calling of instruction, and “grace-giving” (the meaning of her name).  Anna knew her calling (God’s intended purpose for her life) and she lived out that purpose daily.

4)       This brings up one last point.  By living at the temple, Anna had no physical husband to depend upon.  The Lord was Anna’s complete source of provision.  She depended on him for her every need.  Yet, Anna seemed to be content.  God’s goodness, faithfulness and sufficiency were enough for Anna.

Welcome to 2011!  It is my prayer as we begin this New Year that we learn from women like Anna.  It is my prayer that when all is said and done in my life, others can say these same things about me.  In fact,  I’d like to make it my resolution this year to speak truth and encourage hopefulness; make it my choice that with God I will overcome all obstacles life throws at me; fulfill God’s purpose; trust Him fully; and always point others to the Savior!

P.S.  Did you also notice how God blessed Anna with feasting her eyes on the very one she looked forward to with great anticipation!  I, too, look forward to that day when my eyes will behold my Savior, whether his return (Maranatha! – maybe this year?), or my home-going...  One day, I will see him face to face, and like Anna, will give thanks to God for his remarkable gift of grace!