Topical Encyclopedia
Anna, a prophetess mentioned in the Gospel of Luke, is a remarkable biblical figure who exemplifies thankfulness and devotion to God. Her account is found in
Luke 2:36-38, where she is introduced during the presentation of Jesus at the Temple in Jerusalem. Anna's life and actions provide a profound example of gratitude and faithfulness, serving as an inspiration for believers.
Anna was the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband for seven years before becoming a widow. After her husband's death, Anna dedicated her life to serving God, spending her days and nights in the Temple, fasting and praying. Her commitment to worship and her unwavering faithfulness are noteworthy, as she chose to remain in the Temple, seeking God's presence continually.
The account in Luke highlights Anna's thankfulness when she encounters the infant Jesus.
Luke 2:38 states, "Coming forward at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem." Anna's immediate response upon seeing Jesus was one of gratitude. Her thankfulness was not just a private expression but was shared with others, as she spoke about Jesus to those who were anticipating the redemption of Jerusalem.
Anna's thankfulness is deeply rooted in her recognition of God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises. Her life of devotion and her response to Jesus' presence reflect a heart that is attuned to God's work and His redemptive plan. Her gratitude is a testament to her understanding of the significance of Jesus' arrival and the hope He brings.
In the broader biblical context, thankfulness is a recurring theme, often associated with recognizing God's goodness and His acts of salvation. Anna's account aligns with this theme, as her thankfulness is directly connected to the revelation of God's salvation through Jesus Christ. Her example encourages believers to cultivate a heart of gratitude, recognizing God's work in their lives and sharing that thankfulness with others.
Anna's life also underscores the importance of perseverance in faith and worship. Her years of dedication in the Temple, despite her personal loss and advanced age, demonstrate a steadfast commitment to God. Her thankfulness is not a fleeting emotion but a reflection of a life lived in constant communion with God.
In summary, Anna's account in the Gospel of Luke serves as a powerful illustration of thankfulness rooted in faith and devotion. Her life encourages believers to remain faithful in worship, to recognize God's work in their lives, and to express gratitude for His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ.
Nave's Topical Index
Luke 2:38And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise to the Lord, and spoke of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
Nave's Topical Index
Library
Christ's Birth
... when Mary begged him to take to his heart, in joy and thankfulness, the holy ... that
Noemi, the teacher of the Blessed Virgin, and the prophetess Anna, and the ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xi christs birth.htm
Name Date No.
... Ralph 1779-1853 219 Waring, Miss Anna Laetitia 1823-1910 220, 224 Warner, Miss Anna
Bartlett 1824-1915 ... Songs of thankfulness and praise, [4036]t2.t27.h96-p0.6. ...
/.../name date no a abelard.htm
The Journey of the Three Holy Kings to Bethlehem
... 22 ^nd:] This evening, after the Sabbath had ended, I saw Anna and her ... be received;
I, too, in future will accept every kindness with thankfulness and all ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xiii the journey of the.htm
Jer. 6:16 the Good Way.
... secretly over the corrupt state of the nation, and, like Simeon and Anna, kept the ...
We shall look back over all the way of life with thankfulness, and see the ...
/.../ryle/the upper room being a few truths for the times/chapter v jer 6 16 the.htm
Question Lxxxiii of Prayer
... Thus the Psalmist says: My heart hath said to Thee, My face hath sought Thee[200];
and of Anna we are told that she spoke within her heart.[201]. ...
/.../aquinas/on prayer and the contemplative life/question lxxxiii of prayer.htm
part ii
My Life in Christ. <. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm
Resources
What does the Bible say about thankfulness/gratitude? | GotQuestions.orgWhy doesn't the Lord's Prayer include thanksgiving? shouldn't all our prayers include expressions of thankfulness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about ingratitude/unthankfulness? | GotQuestions.orgThankfulness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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