Luke 2:38 describes a specific moment during the presentation of Jesus at the temple in Jerusalem. Let's break down the meaning:
"Coming up at that very hour..." This refers to Anna, a prophetess who had been waiting in the temple. The "very hour" suggests divine timing – she arrived just as Simeon had finished his prophecy about Jesus (Luke 2:25-35).
"...she gave thanks to the Lord..." Anna recognized Jesus' significance and expressed her gratitude to God for his arrival. This shows her faith and spiritual discernment.
"...and spoke of him to all those who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem." This is the key part:
"Spoke of him": She shared her understanding of who Jesus was – likely connecting him to the prophecies about the Messiah.
"All those who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem": This refers to a specific group of people: devout Jews who were anticipating God's deliverance and the restoration of Israel. They were longing for freedom from their sins and the oppression they were experiencing. Anna targeted her message to those who were already receptive and hopeful.
In summary, the verse highlights Anna's role as a witness and herald of Jesus. She was moved by the Holy Spirit to recognize Jesus as the Messiah and shared this good news with others who were eagerly awaiting redemption. It shows that there were devout individuals who were aware of the prophecies and were open to recognizing the Messiah when he arrived. Anna’s actions confirm Jesus' purpose to bring redemption to Jerusalem and, ultimately, to the world.
Luke 2:38 describes a specific moment during the presentation of Jesus at the temple in Jerusalem. Let's break down the meaning:
"Coming up at that very hour..." This refers to Anna, a prophetess who had been waiting in the temple. The "very hour" suggests divine timing – she arrived just as Simeon had finished his prophecy about Jesus (Luke 2:25-35).
"...she gave thanks to the Lord..." Anna recognized Jesus' significance and expressed her gratitude to God for his arrival. This shows her faith and spiritual discernment.
"...and spoke of him to all those who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem." This is the key part:
"Spoke of him": She shared her understanding of who Jesus was – likely connecting him to the prophecies about the Messiah.
"All those who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem": This refers to a specific group of people: devout Jews who were anticipating God's deliverance and the restoration of Israel. They were longing for freedom from their sins and the oppression they were experiencing. Anna targeted her message to those who were already receptive and hopeful.
In summary, the verse highlights Anna's role as a witness and herald of Jesus. She was moved by the Holy Spirit to recognize Jesus as the Messiah and shared this good news with others who were eagerly awaiting redemption. It shows that there were devout individuals who were aware of the prophecies and were open to recognizing the Messiah when he arrived. Anna’s actions confirm Jesus' purpose to bring redemption to Jerusalem and, ultimately, to the world.