Face Of God – Anna Darlene Edmondson
“And they will see His face, and His Name written on their foreheads” (Rev 22:4 NIV)
In the fullness of time, God’s ecstasy broke forth in splendid radiance. Descending from heaven’s out-streaming brilliance, Jesus humbled Himself as the Son of Man and dwelt among us, “and we beheld His glory, the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). Micah’s foretold Israel’s ruler and shepherd would be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2-4).
Although the spirit of prophecy lay dormant for 400 years, prophetess Anna knew she would see the Christ-child. From the tribe of Asher and daughter of Phanuel, Anna served God day and night with fastings and prayers. The name Phanuel (Penuel) signifies the ‘face of God’, and a name Jacob gave the place where he saw God face to face (Gen 32:30).
In perfect detail, God prepared the Savior’s nativity with numerous witnesses, the testimony of angels, wise men, shepherds, Simeon, Anna, etc. Awaiting redemption, Anna longed for the Anointed One to provide salvation for all nations (Luke 2:36-38). She beheld Jesus’ face in the flesh, and it was this Divine Redeemer who purchased our lives with His precious blood.
Now, we marvel at the vast miracles of Christmas and eagerly look for His second coming “Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many and will appear a second time to those who eagerly wait for Him”(Heb 9:28) Beloved, we are God’s children. When He appears we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him as He is (1 John 3:2).
Father, we owe our very lives to You. From the foundation of the world, you planned Jesus’ virgin birth and blood sacrifice. Like Anna, we yearn to see You, living with You forever. Amen.
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