02/20/2026
Coming up to them at that very moment, [Anna] gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
Luke 2:38
Anna has lived in the temple courts of the Lord for years. It’s become her home after her life took a very different turn from what she probably imagined it would be. She became a widow after just seven years of marriage. In the New Testament times, there weren’t many options for a woman on her own. There was no Social Security, nothing to offer her a financial safety net. So Anna has spent her years serving in the temple. She has committed her life to serving God in spite of the difficulties she might have faced in such a vulnerable position. Her age is significant, since it symbolizes and emphasizes perseverance and faithfulness, both on her end and on the Lord’s. He has been with her throughout it all, provided for her and given her the blessing of seeing the Messiah with her own eyes even in her old age.
God has opened Anna’s eyes to who Jesus will be as He grows up. When she sees Him, she gives thanks and starts proclaiming the fulfillment of the prophecies to anyone who will listen. Like her, the people have been hoping for a Savior. Their waiting is over and their prayers have been heard. Now God Himself dwells among them. But many will not recognize the answer to their prayers. Jesus is not who they expected their Messiah to be.
Anna knows, and she is grateful. She is one of the very few people aware that the Old Testament promises are being fulfilled before her eyes, and she’ll share her joy with all those who are waiting for the Lord.
In spite of the hardships she’s gone through, Anna’s story underscores the importance of our devotion to God. Even when life takes unexpected turns, we can make the choice to remain steadfast in our faith. The Lord doesn’t change, even if our circumstances do. After a season of mourning, He promises to restore your joy and give you reasons to dance. Don’t lose heart. The redemption of the world is coming, and Jesus will make everything right again. Speak about Him to anyone who needs a reason to live, to hope. He is the only One who can fulfill that need.