DREAM OF A BETTER WORLD | DECEMBER 30, 2020
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December 30, 2020She never left the temple but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer. And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.
God is good, all the time.
Friends: Today's gospel concentrates on Anna, one of the holy women whose lives inspire us to hope and trust in God while looking forward to a better world. Anna is mentioned as the daughter of Phanuel; the name means “God’s face”, which seem to be connatural with her life devotion of constantly seeking God’s face in the temple.
I am thinking of all that we have been through together in the world from the COVID-19 pandemic. I am thinking of all that we have been through together in Eastern Iowa from Derecho. I am thinking of families and friends that couldn't spend time together or be there for members when needed. Anna had her own share of life’s bitter pill, but she found hope and faith in God to get her through it.
Anna's faith and hope in Israel's redemption, which explains her frequent visit and presence in the temple and, which led her to speak about Jesus to all who were awaiting Israel's salvation after the presentation of Jesus in the temple, should be a shining example for us to dream and look forward to a better world in the coming year.
If we all have the image of a better world and believe in God's love and power to bring that about and are committed to being part of the change by being at the service of others, then we should also be ready to make the efforts and even sacrifices to make the dream of a better time ahead for all come through.
Anna’s devotion to prayer and fasting encourages us to pray and put our trust in God. Let’s stay positive, faithful, and hopeful.
