Wednesday 30 December 2020 - 6th day of the Christmas octave - Today the light shone on the earth. People of the universe, enter into the light of God. Come and worship the Lord! - Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Luke 2, 36-40

Anne was one of the Lord's poor, waiting and relying on the salvation God promised his people. Throughout her life, Anne put herself on hold, through her services in the temple, through prayer and fasting, ways of seeking and approaching the Saviour, of seeking God. What this prophetess did teaches us to seek the Lord, it also teaches us not to break the bond that binds us to Him.

She spent her life in the temple, waiting for the promised Saviour. And it is right that this hope should be fulfilled: she met the Child Jesus. What Anna has done teaches us that God is waiting for us in his dwelling place, that He speaks to us there, and that prayer and fasting maintain our relationship with Him.

Going to church is not a simple routine, but a meeting with the Saviour. May we enjoy this encounter without neglecting it. Jesus, You came among us to relieve the suffering of those who seek You with a pure heart. Do not allow us to be distracted from fleeting things, but to remain in communion with You.