Unpacking Anna

Right on the heels of Simeon in Luke 2:36-38, Anna deserves a place in the Christmas nativity too! Anna is unique in that she is (1) a prophetess; (2) faithful to one husband; (3) an elderly widow now 84; (4) devoted night and day to worship in the temple, including fasting and prayer. Moreover, coming to the temple the same hour that Baby Jesus was brought by Joseph and Mary, she begins to praise and thank God and speak of Jesus to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem. The Good News of Jesus cannot be contained - even to this day!!!