WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30
1 John 2:12-17; Psalm 96; Luke 2:36-40
In today's reading, Anna, age 84, has long been a widow. Consecrated to God, "she never left the temple, serving God day and night with fasting and prayer" (Lk 2:37). St. Luke's two verses on Anna are a part of a larger description of when Jesus is presented to God at the Temple. As they enter, the Holy Family are first greeted by Simeon, and then by Anna. Both recognize Jesus as the Messiah.
Anna's description is detailed. She is a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel (v.36). In the New Testament, to be described as prophetess meant that she possessed the gift of understanding and proclaiming God's word. Upon seeing Jesus, Anna "gave thanks to God and spoke of the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem" (v.38).
Pope John Paul II wrote, "[Anna] represents those who, having intensely lived in expectation of the Messiah, are able to accept the fulfillment of the promise with joyous exultation."3 She is an example for us of someone who lives her faith, is therefore able to more deeply understand how God sees the world, and who proclaims God's word to the world.
Brian Kane, PhD
Senior Director, Ethics
Catholic Health Association
Pause
How do you "live your faith?" How does it help you to see the world and proclaim God's word?
Pray
God of the Universe, Creator of Light and Dark: You have formed us together as one body to proclaim Your peace. Draw us beyond our own narrowness to recognize Christ within ourselves and one another. Help us to choose unity – humility over pride and patience over anger. Make in us Your dwelling place, O God, that we may be worthy builders of Your Kingdom and true instruments of Your grace. Amen.
ENDNOTE
- Saint Pope John Paul II, General Audience, January 8, 1997.