She did not depart from the temple

First Reading: Psalm: Gospel:

1 John 2:12-17 Psalm 96:7-10 Luke 2:36-40

Luke 2:37 and as a widow till she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day.

Anna, like Simeon got to be part of this fantastic story of the Lord made flesh. But she wasn't picked from the mass of people that lived in this world and had this world's values. She was devoted to God and her life reflected this devotion. Same with Simeon. And for that matter, if you believe the Gospel of James, so was Marry. A virgin was more than just a girl that did not have intercourse. A virgin was a woman that was devoted to the Lord and was celibate as part of that devotion. It is kind of like being a nun. Anna had devoted herself to the Lord and she was allowed to share in this glorious story. A story that can be told in heaven for eternity.

Father, help me by your Holy Spirit to become more devoted to you so that I too am present when there is a need for someone to share in the sharing of your grace.

Amen