The Sixth Day in the Octave of Christmas
As I reflect on today’s readings, I find myself thinking about Anna the prophetess, who was in the Temple during Jesus’ presentation. She is mentioned in only one brief paragraph in the entire Bible, yet there is so much packed into it. We learn that she was from the tribe of Asher and had been widowed at a young age. Afterward, she seemingly went to live in the Temple, praying day and night and never leaving. We do not really know how she came to be there, what her life was like before, why she chose never to leave, or whether other widows did the same. Yet the Gospel writer chose to include her in the story of Jesus. Why?
A few things strike me about this passage. First, in her time, she was probably unassuming and largely unnoticed, as older widows were often overlooked in her day. Second, she recognizes Jesus. Third, she gives thanks for her encounter with him and then tells others about him. In this way, her journey of coming to know Jesus Christ reflects our own as his disciples. An encounter with Jesus involves recognizing him, being grateful for the encounter, and then telling and showing others the love God has for them.
After this, the Gospel shifts to Jesus, Mary, and Joseph’s return to Galilee, and we hear no more about Anna. Her mission was to see the Messiah. Once she encountered Jesus, her role in the Gospel narrative was complete. Yet her witness did not end there. She continued spreading the news about Jesus Christ, even though the story moves on without her. May we, too, continue the mission of evangelization, even when we are not recognized for it.
—Sr. Emily Sandoval, FMI