December 30
Anna was eighty-four. She is one of the few people in Scripture with a precise age. What does being "advanced in years" mean in today's Gospel? Why is Anna one of those characters in our Christmas stories who recognizes the newborn child as the Messiah? Why does it take a woman like Anna, who lived a long life, who had experienced marriage and widowhood, to "give thanks to God" that the awaited redemption now lives among us? Anna had grown advanced in years and wise in spirit; she led a holy life, worshipping "night and day with fasting and prayer" (Luke 2:37). God called Israel to care for widows. How do we answer that call? During our human life, we are cared for and we care for others. Anna was cared for and cared for women like Mary with a newborn child.
Mary, Joseph, and Jesus encounter many elders during their Christmas journey: Zechariah, Isabel, Anna, and Simeon. Their experience and wisdom encourage this family as it begins its mission. A community lived around them, with elders who blessed and, most likely, counseled. We need each other for our human family to "grow strong, filled with wisdom and find the favor of God" (Luke 2:40).
Sr. Teresa Maya, CCVI, Ph.D.
Senior Director, Theology and Sponsorship, CHA
Pause
Where are you invited to call on the blessing and counsel of elders in your life?
Pray
God, who is hope, shine Your light in our darkness so that we may continue to build Your kingdom. Let us be reflections of Your brilliance, always working to make Your goodness known. In Your Holy Name we pray, Amen.