night and day, in fasting and prayer. She was now eighty-four. Coming up at that time, she gave praise to God, and spoke of the
child to all who looked forward to the deliverance of Jerusalem. When the parents had fulfilled all that was required by the law of the Lord, they
returned to their town, Nazareth in Galilee. There, the child grew in stature and strength, and was filled with wisdom: the grace of God was upon him.
Reflection:
Some people dedicated a life time to see what
they are looking for. These extraordinary display of
faith and patience is only possible when you are
nourished by a strong prayer life. For mere human
strength could falter in the face of long uncertain
years of waiting. Only the strength of the spirit can
sustain such endeavor. That is why Anna, the prophetess
is continuously present in the temple to serve God night
and day. This is not just to fill her days. She could have
other activities. Perhaps she knew deep in her heart that
what she waits for will come to the temple. She will see
what she longed for through the years in the house of
God. And so, our gospel is the fulfillment of the long
years of patient waiting. She sees the child, gives praise to
God and bears testimony in behalf of the child. She is
now complete. What will happen to her afterwards is
of no consequence.
© Copyright Bible Diary 2021