Anna, a prophetess mentioned in the Gospel of Luke, serves as a profound example of devout fasting and prayer in the New Testament. Her account is briefly recounted in Luke 2:36-38, where she is introduced as a woman of great piety and dedication to God.

Anna was the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher, and she lived during the time of Jesus' infancy. The Berean Standard Bible describes her as "very old," having lived with her husband for seven years after her marriage and then as a widow until the age of eighty-four. Her long life of widowhood was marked by her unwavering commitment to worship and service in the temple.

The scripture highlights Anna's spiritual discipline, stating, "She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying" (Luke 2:37). This passage underscores her continuous devotion and the integral role that fasting played in her spiritual practice. Anna's fasting was not merely an act of personal piety but a form of worship and intercession, reflecting her deep longing for the redemption of Israel.

Anna's life of fasting and prayer positioned her to witness the fulfillment of God's promise. When Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the temple, Anna recognized Him as the long-awaited Messiah. Her response was immediate and prophetic; she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem (Luke 2:38).

Anna's example illustrates the power and purpose of fasting as a means of drawing closer to God and aligning oneself with His divine purposes. Her life demonstrates that fasting, coupled with prayer, can lead to spiritual insight and the ability to discern God's work in the world. Her account encourages believers to embrace fasting as a spiritual discipline that fosters a deeper relationship with God and a readiness to participate in His redemptive plan.Luke 2:37
And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

part ii
... " [711] But the saints all acquired pure hearts by fasting, vigilance, prayer, pious
meditation, by reading the Word of God, martyrdom, labour, and sweat ...
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