Reflection: Anna Lives Long in Longing

They might be feeble, Simeon and Anna, but today there’s a skip to their step. They’ve been on tiptoe for the Saviour…and here he is, in fragile flesh. Simeon’s spiritual sight recognises him. Trembling arms hold him, rheumy eyes behold him, bated breath blesses him. Then Anna’s quivering voice celebrates, gives thanks…and broadcasts him.

Anna’s been a ‘little person’ for a long time. A mere seven-years-married and she’s widowed…for life; for a long, lone life. There’s not much to go on here, in three verses, but we know, bitter, she was not. While essentially invisible in society, she’s ever so visible in her walk of faith. Her home is her worship, her food is her prayer, her hope is her life.

Anna was devout. As a prophet, she knew that a Saviour was imminent. She was ready and waiting. But old and devout! Focused, intent and expectant for a lifetime. That’s today’s inspiration. On tiptoe for our returning Lord Jesus, no matter our age.

Prayer:

Sing to the LORD who is faithful and true.
Sing of the babe: promise revealed.
Sing of the Son: salvation sealed.
Sing of the Spirit: creation being renewed.
And sing-in his return: equity to be deal’d.

At present we are on the outside of the world, the wrong side of the door. We discern the freshness and purity of morning, but they do not make us fresh and pure. We cannot mingle with the splendours we see. But all the leaves of the New Testament are rustling with the rumour that it will not always be so. Some day, God willing, we shall get in. C.S. Lewis