A Devotional for such a time as this: - from: Stanley, C. F. (2000). Into His presence (p. 73). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers. _______________________________________ Open Your Heart to God SCRIPTURE READING: Luke 2:25–40 KEY VERSES: Luke 2:36–38 There was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty–four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem. Anna’s husband died when she was quite young. They had been married only seven years before death took his life. Alone she took up the mantle of prayer and devoted herself to seeking God for the coming of the Messiah (Luke 2:37). How many of us would have done this? There’s no mention of worrying about her state of widowhood or how her needs would be provided. No record of anger over being left without her husband, her friend, and her beloved at such an early age. These elements are especially important when we look at her life in the context of Judaism. Most women were married and had children. To be barren was a disgrace, but not for Anna. Her devotion was solely to the Lord. Day and night, her heart’s desire was to seek audience with almighty God through prayer. Times of fasting gave her a spiritual sensitivity that few experience. When Christ came to earth, one of the first places He went was to the temple. Even as a baby, Jesus was God. He had heard this woman’s fervent petition, and with His birth God answered her call. Prayer transports us into the presence of God. Anna did not concern herself with the talk and gossip of her day. She was focused on the coming of the Messiah. Have you made the decision to open your heart only to God? Lord, I focus my attention upon You right now as I kneel in Your presence. I open my heart to You. - via Logos 5 #devotionalforsuchatimeasthis #christjesus #vineofchristministries #theword #studyscripture #god #biblestudy #bible #jesus #faith
Posted on: Mon, 10 Mar 2014 17:34:45 +0000
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