This Christmas week I want to take a look at a verse that shows one woman’s joyous response to the coming of Jesus.
The Context
The woman that this verse is referring to is the eighty-four-year-old prophetess Anna. Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple to present Him to the Lord. Two miraculous things happened while they were there. First, a man arrived, named Simeon, who had been led “by the Spirit to the temple.” He had received a promise from God that he would not die until he saw the Messiah. Imagine Simeon’s anticipation all these years, and now the day had finally come! Simeon knew immediately that Jesus was the One. Next came Anna, who had been a widow for decades. She also immediately knew who Jesus was!
“In that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord…”
Anna had been waiting for the Messiah all her life, and now He was finally before her very eyes. Her greatest hope had been realized. Anna’s immediate response was thanksgiving. She thanked God for keeping His promise. Have you considered how Christmas ought to be a time of great thanksgiving? Not just for material things, but for the long-awaited salvation that was provided both for the nation of Israel and the rest of the world.
“…and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.”
After giving thanks, Anna wanted to let others know the good news. When we know something amazing has happened, we naturally want to share it! Have you allowed yourself to be so amazed and excited by the gospel that you just can’t help but share it? The verse says that she shared this news with those “that looked for redemption” where she was, Jerusalem. We have the opportunity to share Jesus with people who are searching where we are as well. People want to find hope and peace, but don’t know where to look. You have the chance to point them to redemption.
This week, meditate on the true story of Christmas and how it has impacted your life. Be amazed by it and let it bring you to times of thanksgiving and a desire to tell others of the Savior.
Merry Christmas!
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