December 30, 2023, Saturday the 6th Day in the Octave of the Nativity of our Lord. B
1 John 2:12-17
Psalm 96
Luke 2:36-40
…she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child… Luke 2:38
Lord, another of your faith-filled children recognized you in the temple. A widow for maybe up to 50-60 years, Anna was consecrated to you. So close was she to the will of the Father she immediately knew you were the long-awaited Messiah. She listened to your word. So also did Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth, Zechariah, the shepherds, and the Magi. Those who listen—knew who you were. Anna fasted and prayed daily to the Father and her prayer was answered in the form of a little child. A child who changed everything. Lord, change what needs changing in me. Lord help me to listen more openly to your word. Guide my heart to rejoice. Anna spoke to all about the child. She was a powerful evangelizer in what she said and in how she lived. Pour your grace into my heart as you do to all who encounter you. Amen.