WOMEN OF CHRISTMAS WEEK 4 BIBLE STUDY

 

At 84, Anna was near the end of her life. In those days 50 was concerned a ripe old age. Anna’s husband had died more than 60 years earlier, not long after they were married. There were no children to care for and on one to care for her.

For some reason, contrary to what was commonly expected of her, she never remarried. Her culture didn’t allow a woman to pursue a career. So what was she to do with all that time?

Anna refused to accept the traditional widow role or be someone’s depended relative. She didn’t feel sorry for herself. She didn’t succumb to loneliness. Instead she devoted herself to God.

She devoted herself, loving Him, worshipping Him, spending time in His presence. In that day, women weren’t taught to read or write, let alone study the Scriptures. They were supposed to marry and have children and manage the affairs of their household. The ministry of priesthood was not open to women.

These barriers that society had built didn’t keep Anna from hungering, thirsting after righteousness. They didn’t keep her from seeking after the things of God with her whole heart.

She never meant to be single, but she learned to make the most of the freedom and opportunity that gave her.

After many years passed, Anna’s faithfulness and devotion earned her the respect of the community. She was recognized as a woman of wisdom and understanding.

She had a ministry of prayer and intercession, crying out to God on behalf of her friends, family, the community and nation.

Let’s see now how she fits in the Christmas story.

READ CHAPTERS  7 & 8 IN THE BOOK

CHAPTER 7 BLOG  http://www.lizcurtishiggs.com/the-12-gifts-of-christmas/

CHAPTER 8 BLOG  http://www.lizcurtishiggs.com/the-women-of-christmas-and-our-eyes-at-last-shall-see-him/

http://www.lizcurtishiggs.com/the-women-of-christmas-joy-of-every-longing-heart/