Scripture Notes: Speaking Up (Luke 2)

Anna has been waiting a long, long time when Mary and Joseph bring the baby Jesus into the Temple. She is 84 years old, dedicated to prayer and fasting, determined to wait in faith, hope, and love for the coming of the Messiah. Her heart is open, her mind clear, her spirit attuned to truth. And she recognizes Jesus the moment she sees Him. This is the One Who is at the heart of her life, the One for Whom she has been waiting, finally the One Who will redeem Israel.

When she sees Jesus, Anna goes straight to Him, giving thanks to God. We can imagine her excitement, her smile, her gentle touch. Perhaps she, like Simeon, holds the Baby, cuddling Him close to her, looking into His eyes, experiencing the connection, the joy, of this intimacy with God. Then Anna speaks up. She tells everyone about Jesus. She may focus on those who have been waiting with her for the redemption of Israel, but most likely, she spreads the news to anyone who can hear. 

But do these people listen? Do they believe Anna’s message? Perhaps some merely smile and condescendingly think what a sweet, silly old lady Anna is. Others may scoff, still others ignore. But some probably listen, caught up in Anna’s enthusiasm. These would be waiting to see what happens next, what this little Baby might grow up to be. Anna does not live to see Jesus’ return to Jerusalem during His public ministry or to witness His salvific death and resurrection, but she knows the truth. The Redeemer has come, and she never hesitates to speak up.