There was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She 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. When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.
REFLECTION
Some people seem to have special insight and even forsight. This has happened to me. For example, I noticed a young man at church, he was humble and prayerful. We talked a few times after Mass. I was impressed with his knowledge about the saints. After speaking with him a few times, I said, "You are going to become a priest." He shyly smiled and replied that he was in college studying engineering. After about a year of chatting with him after church, I told him that I was praying that he'd become a priest. He would only smile. Months went by and I missed seeing him. Then he appeared at church. After Mass we talked and he shared that he was discerning a religious life.
Anna was eighty-four years old when Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus came to the Temple in Jerusalem. She had prayed and fasted in the Temple for many years awaiting the Messiah. Those who met Anna witnessed her faithfulness to God. On that day, Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to present Him to God. Anna saw Mary, Joseph and their newborn son, Jesus. She was hopeful. Then she heard Simeon say here is the One he had been awaiting. And filled with the Holy Spirit, he took the child and lifted him up saying, "Now you may dismiss your servant in peace, O Lord, according to your word. For my eyes have seen your salvation..."
Convinced by Simeon, Anna then went to all those entering the Temple and told them the Good News! Like Anna, I want to share the good news about my young friend. He is renamed, Brother Paul Marie, he has taken his first vow in the Dominican Order.
Let us pray to Lord that Brother Paul may someday become Father Paul Marie. Here is our PAPA Prayer for Priests.
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