Luke 2:36-40 The Favor of God

2:36-37 Her past. Anna’s words are recorded by Luke as coming from somebody with integrity and uprightness. She had a difficult life, yet her response was continual worship. She spent her time not in complaining or bitterness, but instead in fasting and calling on the Lord in prayer. 2:38 Her hope. At exactly the right time, Anna comes onto the scene when Jesus and his parents are at the temple. Anna’s response is to give thanks to God. Why? Because she recognizes Jesus as the One whom everyone had been waiting for: He would redeem His people! 2:39-40 His growth. Anna’s story completes what we’ve seen from Joseph and Mary at the temple with Jesus. Their own faithfulness matters, it honors the Lord. And we find Jesus growing and having the favor of God. The Point: God’s blessing in Jesus matters more than our circumstances – it gives us joy now and forever. Prayer: Lord, it is tempting to measure our lives by what we see and experience here and now. Or by comparison to others. Or by the things we do or don’t have. Thank you for Anna’s example of faithfulness and worship instead. Use her testimony to cause us to have great joy in Jesus, our Savior! Application: Doggedly choose to have joy in the Lord – look to Jesus instead of your circumstances. Who in your circles needs the encouragement of Jesus today? How will you be intentional about sharing the hope of Christ with them? Here is how I will apply these truths: ___________________ __________________________________________________