Luke 2:36-39

Luke 2:36-39

Anna Prophetissa by Cael de Mallery, Antwerp 1566-1628

Anna is the first prophetess mentioned in the New Testament.

Luke 2:36-39  "And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Asher; she was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years from her virginity and as a widow till she was eighty-four.  She did not depart from the temple, worshiping and fasting and prayer night and day.  And coming up at that very hour, she gave thanks to God, and spoke of him to all who were looking for redemption of Jerusalem.  (Read more about this at website:  http://ncvolunteer.wordpress.com/2008/04/17/anna-the-prophetess ) "What kept Anna from going back to her family and home after the death of her husband.  How did she happen to be there when Jesus the Babe was brought to the temple?  Great reading!

What great strength this woman showed!  Can you imagine losing your husband after only 7 yrs of marriage and then remaining in Jerusalem for the rest of your life because you are waiting for that which was prophesied to be fulfilled?  Amazing!  God is always working in so many lives at once!

Luke 2:39 "And when they had performed according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth.

Enjoy your Christmas week and remember to light the last Advent candle in white that represents Jesus.  Take time out to meditate on the birth and the joy that it brought as well as sorrow. 

Loneliness:  And remember during this season of joy to share with those that are alone, who have no family left on earth nor anyone to bring them a gift...  Visit a nursing home, or someone who is house bound.  A tin of cookies, even those from a store may really cheer someone's life.  Or buy some ornaments in the $ store and wrap them.  A very little thing can make a huge impact on someone who is lonely.  You will remember their smile the rest of your life and it will be their gift to you.

My husband and I used to do this in the 90's at a campground.  When we realized all the lonely people who would be on a campground for Christmas with no family or gifts, it touched our hearts.  It started out small and the last year we did this, we gave 87 handmade and $ store gifts with a candy cane.  As more and more people were present at Christmas time, we could no longer afford to do this in great numbers but we still surprise neighbors by putting a poinsettia on their porch or a gift of cookies, etc.

Thank you for joining us here and we hope you will come again and often!

♥KERRIE♥

My heart to yours...