“There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.” (Luk 2:36-38 NIV)
Anna the prophetess, a female preacher, was drawn to the baby in Mary’s arms. Anna was an elderly, devoted God-worshipper who spent her days in the Temple in fellowship with God. As she approached Mary and Joseph, she began to praise and thank God for the blessing of seeing the redemption of God’s people.
The Holy Spirit revealed to her that Mary’s baby was the one of whom the Prophets had wrote. He was the one that would bring redemption to all people. So she began proclaiming the good news to everyone in the Temple who would listen to her. Here was an independent confirmation to Mary and Joseph of the message from the angels. What a boost to their faith!
Perhaps you need a faith booster today. Faith is like waiting in the airport for our flight. We expect it to be there in time to get us to our destination. We do all the “faith” actions necessary for a passenger: buy a ticket, check in at the airport, have our luggage checked, go through security, and wait patiently at the proper exit gate. Still, it is always comforting to have the airline personnel confirm our ticket and flight. Those who look for redemption must respond to God’s invitation, receive his salvation, and expect that He will keep all his promises. If we do, then life with our Savior and Lord will gain deeper meaning as He constantly provides faith boosters.
Dear Father, thank you for the faith boosters you provide in our lives. Empower us to respond faithfully to your Spirit. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today and boost your faith,