December 30, 2020 Wednesday in the Octave of Christmas-B

1 John 2:12-17

Psalm 96

Luke 2:36-40

But whoever does the will of God remains forever.  1 John 2:17

She (Anna)…worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer.  Lk. 2:37

Lord, John and Luke guide us today to reflect on doing your will. Going against your will is a sure formula for disaster. Your will, your dream, for me is always good, always in my best interest and always the best way to go. But how can I know your will so that I may follow it? We have a woman today, Anna, who can give me some pointers. At 84 she was ancient in her day.  She completely dedicated every moment to fasting, prayer and praising God in the temple. While her age may have dimmed her physical eyesight, her eyes of faith were sharp. She saw in you, even as a baby, a gift from God to the world. She and Simeon knew in their hearts that you would become a light to all in darkness. Simeon and Anna prayed, fasted, and continually opened their hearts to God. They accepted everything that led them closer to him. Lord, show me how to know your will better. Help me to be more faithful to reflecting on your word, receiving you in the sacraments of your church and offering myself in service to those in need.   Amen.