There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child [Jesus] to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. Luke 2:36-38 (NIV)
Dear Lord Jesus, this story reminds me that only you are worthy of our heart’s affection, adoration, and allegiance. You are a most wonderful and merciful Savior. If I’m alive at 84, like Anna, then I want to be more fully alive than ever to your beauty, passionate for your glory, and hope-full of your coming.
Because of what you accomplished by your life, death, and resurrection, one Day the entire earth will be covered with the knowledge of the glory of God. The final sanctuary won’t be Israel’s Temple—where Anna met with you, but every square inch of the new heaven and new earth.
Every creature and all creation will be liberated for the praise of your glory and the adoration of your name. Hasten that glad and glorious Day, when everything above the earth, on the earth, and under the earth will be healed and set free, for the perpetual enjoyment and worship of the Triune God.
In that Day, we’ll realize that the Garden of Eden was a hint and whisper of coming attractions—a preview of what you planned in eternity past. No longer will it be said, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him” (1 Cor. 2:9), for we will see, hear, and enjoy everything prepared for us. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah!
In light of that Day, Lord Jesus, free us to live this day with the humility becoming those who are saved by grace, captives to hope, and co-heirs with you. So very Amen we pray, in your triumphant and tender name.
