Anna is an important personality recorded only by Dr. Luke in his gospel. (Luke 2: 36-38)
Prophetess:
About one hundred prophets are mentioned in the Bible. About 75 are in the Old Testament and 25 in the New Testament. Abraham was the first prophet. (Genesis 20:7) Most prophets in the Bible are men. However, there are some prominent female prophets. Miriam, Deborah, Huldah, Noadiah, and Isaiah’s wife. (Exodus 15:20; Judges 4:4; II Kings 22:14; Nehemiah 6:14; Isaiah 8:3) Luke mentions four unmarried daughters of Philip who were prophetesses. (Acts 21:9) Anna is mentioned as a prophetess, which denotes her calling, ministry, and role in God’s plan. She was probably given a residential quarter in the Temple precincts because of her status as a prophetess.
Tribe of Asher
Luke mentions her family and tribal background. Anna belonged to the Asher tribe and was a daughter of Phanuel.
Widow
Anna is described as a widow whose husband died after seven years of marriage. She did not marry again. It is said that when she came into the Temple to see Jesus, she was 84 years old.
Prayers and Fasting
For many, prayer and fasting are boring spiritual elements. Praying, praising, thanksgiving, and intercession are great privileges. Anna had reasons to be angry with God for the loss of her husband. She could have turned bitter and against God. But she was steadfast in her faith and mission. For most Christians, prayer and fasting are a low priority.
Did not depart
Luke writes that Anna did not leave the Temple. This indicates she was dedicated to the ministry God had entrusted to her. She did not go to visit her family members if she had any.
Right moment
Mary and Joseph brought the baby Jesus to the Temple to fulfil the requirements of the Law of Moses. It was not announced or advertised. Yet, the Spirit of God guided Simeon as well as Anna to come at the right moment to see the child, the Son of God.
Anna challenges us to pray, fast, and be dedicated to him.