“There was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from when she was a virgin, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.”
Vigilant – keeping careful watch. To wait. To live observant, attentive, and ready.
Although Anna lived centuries ago, I feel challenged by her today. She experienced close communion with God and proclaimed truth while residing at the temple. She remained in God’s earthly dwelling place, the temple, living each day committed to worship, fasting, prayer, and simplicity. Anna stayed at the temple in a vigilant posture. I wonder about my posture as I live each day. What about you?
The moment Jesus’ parents brought Him to the temple to present Him to the Lord, Anna and Simeon (another righteous and devout follower of God) both began praising God and speaking blessing and honor over the Child (Luke 2:22-40). Vigilant for the arrival of the redemption and salvation of Israel and all of mankind, Anna and Simeon waited. For Anna, she likely waited with a ready posture for at least 63 years for the arrival of Jesus. She waited in hope while worshiping, fasting, and praying at the temple.
What does it mean to live vigilant for the Lord? How do we live attentive and ready for Him?
With Advent, we anticipate and celebrate the arrival of Jesus, our Lord and Savior, who came 2000+ years ago (Luke 1:26-38). And, at the end of time, we look forward to a final coming when Jesus rules and reigns forever (1 Corinthians 1:7-8, Titus 2:13, Daniel 7:13-14, Revelation 19). Between the first advent and the final coming, we experience God with us, Jesus – Emmanuel, by the Holy Spirit with power and grace.
Is my posture one of expectation as Christmas approaches? How do I live attentive to the things of God, during Advent and throughout the year? Have I become desensitized to the awe and majesty of Jesus arrival, ultimate reign, and daily presence? Ponder with me…
We live vigilant for the things of God and notice His activity in ourselves and others. Our Triune God meets us each day, yet we often “miss” Him because we fail to live ready for His movement in our lives as well as in the lives of others. Anna lived a devout and watchful life. Her vigilance fostered deep connection with God.
How well do we keep watch, living expectant of God’s provision each day? In what ways can we live curious for His involvement with us and others?
Let’s live vigilant lives – looking for the presence of our Lord and Savior throughout the day. Jesus has come, will come again, and comes through community and connection every day.
Like Anna, engage spiritual practices like worship, prayer, fasting, and simplicity. Await and anticipate the hand of the Lord at work amongst you throughout the day. Lift praise and gratitude for Jesus’ life, sacrifice, and redemption. Offer worship and praise to God for His goodness. Look for the presence of God as you authentically speak your requests to Him and receive His grace. Keep your life free from temptation by fasting with self-control, patience, and trust. Exercise simplicity as you consider whom you may bless with the resources God has given you. Living simply allows us to gain greater capacity to attune to the presence of Jesus. Take part in these habits as means of living vigilant for the Lord’s appearing in everyday life.
This week – – –
Reflect. Take five minutes to listen to this version of O Come O Come Emmanuel (The Piano Guys). Wonder with God as you take in this musical beauty. How have you seen Jesus in the last week? What might help you live more vigilant for His presence and activity? Thank God that He is with you.
Request. Ask God to give you eyes to “see” His invitations and activity. Let what you see become prayer. Pray for those in your path. Anticipate God’s interaction with you as you communion with Him.
Receive. Sometimes life feels too hard to see. Nevertheless, God loves you extravagantly and eternally. Allow yourself to rest in His love. Receive His embrace as you yield to His presence. Pay attention to the ways this impacts your body, mind, and heart. Rest. Receive. Be revived by Jesus’ care of you.
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Drips from the Word: Muse about these Bible verses. Let these truths impact your living.
Matthew 1:22-23 – All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us).
Revelation 11:15 – Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.”
Splashes from the Spigot: Drink from deep wells. Read these recommended books to fill your soul.
Ruth Chou Simmons. Emmanuel: An Invitation to Prepare Him Room at Christmas and Always . Eugene, OR, 2022.
Jonathan Gibson. O Come, O Come, Emmanuel: A Liturgy for Daily Worship from Advent to Epiphany. Wheaton, IL. 2023.
Sprinklings of Truth: Soak in meaningful songs. Check out these music videos to lift up your spirit.
Laura Story. Come Thou Long Expected Jesus. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7CeH5CWOI7o
For King and Country. O Come O Come Emmanuel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=draHA_9MS18
Puddles for Prayer: Thank you for praying for upcoming travel and speaking engagements.
December 13 – Breathe Retreat, Littleton, CO