Day 21 – Anna
Study Luke 2:36-40
“And this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.” Luke 2:37
Luke’s distinct emphasis on women throughout his Gospel beautifully shifts the focus from the rigid constraints of the law to the beauty of redemption. Among these women is Anna, whose name means grace and favor. Though she was no stranger to deep pain and loss, she refused to let her circumstances make her bitter; instead, she chose to pour her life into the Temple, fasting and praying day and night. Her devotion earned her a place as one of the few named prophetesses in all of Scripture.
When Mary and Joseph brought the baby Jesus to the Temple for His dedication, Anna stood alongside the elderly Simeon to validate the child’s identity. Filled with joy, she immediately began sharing the news of the Messiah’s arrival with everyone who was eagerly awaiting Jerusalem’s redemption. In doing so, this quiet, devoted woman became the very first person to actively spread the Gospel message to the community.
Anna’s story stands as a timeless example of lifelong faithfulness, patience, and unwavering trust in God. Her life is a powerful testament to believers today that God always fulfills His promises. His profound love for humanity was fully demonstrated when His Son stepped onto the earth. Ultimately, her legacy reminds us that the wealthiest individuals are not those with earthly riches, but those who carry the priceless treasures of God’s promises in their hearts throughout their lives.
Pray with me: Father, thank You for showing us what true devotion looks like through the life of Anna. She spent her days fasting and praying in Your house and rejoiced to share the news of the infant Messiah with everyone she met. Give us a heart devoted like hers, Lord, and empower us to boldly share the Gospel with everyone we see. Amen. ©
Love, Pastor Iriza
