“The eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love. … May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you.”
Psalm 33:18, 22
Day and night the widow and prophetess Anna remained in the temple… waiting, praying, hoping for 77 years and more that she would see God’s promise fulfilled. How long, O Lord? must have been the cry on her lips for decades. The Lord answered by sending the baby Messiah right into her presence! She responded with thanksgiving, telling all she knew about the awaited Savior’s arrival. God had chosen shepherds, society’s lowest, to spread the word of Jesus’ birth the night He was born. Now He would use a childless old woman from one of the most obscure tribes of Israel to tell the news. The Lord never forgets even the least of His people.
It was to a particular group of people that Anna spoke passionately: those looking forward to the redemption of Israel (see Luke 2:38). Her message must have remained in that circle and then died out altogether. For by the time Jesus began His public ministry in Israel 30 years later, He was virtually unknown. Friend, you are among those whose hope is in the Lord; do not let the good news grow dull or pass you by!
It was to a particular group of people that Anna spoke passionately: those looking forward to the redemption of Israel (see Luke 2:38). Her message must have remained in that circle and then died out altogether. For by the time Jesus began His public ministry in Israel 30 years later, He was virtually unknown. Friend, you are among those whose hope is in the Lord; do not let the good news grow dull or pass you by!
Scripture Focus
Luke 2:36-40
Insight
The Lord’s eyes were on Anna whose hope was in His unfailing love. His eyes are on you, as well!
Bible In A Year
- Habakkuk 1-3
- Proverbs 25
- Revelation 6-7