Meeting Anna in the Temple Luke 2:36-39
Imaginative Contemplation
Anna, a prophet of the tribe of Asher, was over eighty, spent her time in the Temple worshipping, fasting and praying.
At that moment she met up with Mary, Joseph and Jesus as they were conversing with Simeon. She also began to praise God and to speak about the child to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.
Enter into the scene
I have been listening to Simeon, but am now aware that
Anna, that lovely elderly lady, is hurrying across to see this special family. I am not surprised. Anna, the holy one, would have picked up that there is something very special here.
Anna does not hold the child. It is a bit difficult when you are using a walking stick to hold anything safely. But she reinforces what Simeon has said.
I look around. Some people are making fun of her. ‘Silly old fool! What does she know?’ Others have looked across at our little group and wondered that Anna was so deep in conversation with these people who were obviously visitors to Jerusalem.
Anna and Simeon remind me of my grand -parents, both of whom have died. Their kindness, wisdom and generosity are evident. I am so grateful for the older people in my life. They have helped me to recognise the value of our older people. I feel sorry for those who have no elders in their circle of friends. They are missing so much of the history and the wisdom upon which the future relies.
As the family moved out of the Temple, I turned back to my work of helping the other visitors find their way around this busy place. But I will never forget the impression that family of three made on me that day.
I am praying for this family that it may grow into a hope-filled future.
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· Anna belonged to a line of prophets. What blessings does my family give me? What gifts, talents, health, faith, intelligence do I owe to my family? Gratitude for these.
· Anna was over eighty. How do I relate to our older people? Are they a nuisance, a burden?
· Or do I value their wisdom?
· In retirement, Anna spent all her time in the Temple. If I am an older person, perhaps retired, how do I spend my time? What are my priorities?
· The meeting with Anna embraces all generations:- Jesus, the baby and young person, Mary and Joseph the adults, and Anna, the elder. We need all three groups. Can I see the value and gifts of each stage in life?
· Am I called to change my attitude in any way?
Prayer
God of eternity and of the present moment, give me a share in your wisdom so that I may value and appreciate the wisdom that comes with age. Amen.