TUESDAY December 29, 2020
Looking for Redemption?
Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age… and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
Luke 2:36-38
Anna was a prophetess who had remained a widow for about eighty-four years. It is important to understand that old age and widowhood never stopped Anna from serving her God. She faithfully served the Lord by fasting and praying in the temple, day and night.
Even though Anna was elderly, she remained spiritually alert. As Simeon spoke a prophecy about Christ, Anna entered the temple. Like Simeon, she also recognized the Child as the Messiah. In that very instant, Anna acknowledged Him and gave thanks to God. She spoke prophetically about Jesus. Anna was well-known among the people, and they would have listened to what she had to say. Those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem would have paid close attention to all she had to say about Christ.
What is redemption? In the Old Testament, the word redemption simply means, “The action of paying ransom for something, or regaining possession by clearing a debt.” The redemptive work of Christ redeems us from the debt of sin. What is the debt for our sin? …the wages of sin is death…. Yet what redemptive benefit do we receive when we accept Jesus as our Savior? …the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 6:23).
Are you among those who are looking for redemption? Jesus Christ is both the only price and sacrifice by which eternal redemption is obtained for believers.
~Jonathan Edwards~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!