“She spoke of the Child to all who awaited liberation” Lk. 2:36-40

Today’s Gospel introduces us to a woman, Anna the prophetess; We are told that she was an 84-year-old widow and remained in the temple. Like her, we can imagine many of the holy women we have met in our lives who have dedicated themselves to working in the Church and for the Church and who sustain the community of faith.

Anna is the only prophetess mentioned by name in the New Testament. This holy old woman was a woman who, after the death of her husband, did not leave the temple. She worshipped, praised with fasts and prayers every day and every night. The moment Jesus arrives, she begins to praise God and speak of the Child “to all those who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem” 

She teaches us what it means to persevere, to trust in God alone, to dedicate oneself to prayer and service, to maintain hope. The life she lived is a radical life that presents to us a radical invitation to wait patiently for God’s goodness and mercy and faithfully do His will.

May your life be a testimony and prophecy.