Over the Hill & Picking Up SpeedSample

Anna – Prophetess & Temple Servant

Scripture

“Anna, a prophet, was also there in the Temple. She was the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher, and she was very old. Her husband died when they had been married only seven years. Then she lived as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the Temple but stayed there day and night, worshiping God with fasting and prayer. She came along just as Simeon was talking with Mary and Joseph, and she began praising God. She talked about the child to everyone who had been waiting expectantly for God to rescue Jerusalem.” (Luke 2:36-38 NLT)

Reflection

We often view things through the lens of the spectacular or that which is newsworthy. Anna did not deliver a nation like Moses. She was not the father (or mother) of a people like Abraham. Anna worshipped God with prayer and fasting. She fulfilled the purpose intended for her; she was an intercessor, and she spoke prophetically. Her faithful witness and recognition of the Messiah show spiritual leadership and purpose in old age.

Application

If you are a card-carrying member of the over-60 crowd, what role can you assume that might not be in the limelight, but is integral to God’s kingdom? How can you encourage others that God always has a purpose for which we can be active participants?

Prayer

Father, I simply desire to be available to you for whatever purpose you might have for me. Please speak to me and show me how I can best be available to serve you.