December 10, 2023: Remembering The Annas And Simeons

It is written of Anna, the prophetess, "She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day." (Luke 2:37, ESV)
 
As was Simeon, Anna too was great in years. Scripture says she was eighty-four years of age. Here is what she lived for: "She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day." She lived to be in the presence of God. She lived to serve God with fasting and with prayer. She lived to speak prophetically as God gave her things to say.

Older adults are often pushed to the side during the holiday season. They often cannot hear as well as they once did, so they are excluded from conversations and special moments that can fill the heart with joy. As you are with family this Christmas, make a little extra effort to include those excluded by hearing difficulties.

A lack of mobility often restrains older adults. The legs and feet that once took them wherever they wanted to go now cannot move as steadily or as fast as they once did. Again, their lack of mobility keeps them from participating in relational things. Remember to include them.

Simeon and Anna were two older people who had much wisdom to share. Their time before God in the secret place filled them with insights that will go unnoticed unless someone purposely draws wisdom from these wells of life. This Christmas, do not overlook these aged ones whom God has kindly set in our midst.