Dear Asher and Happy Birthday!
May your tribe increase!
One of my favorite Bible teachers when I was a younger man was a professor from Dallas Theological Seminary named Howard Hendricks (1924 – 2013). One of the things that he often said when he heard about someone who was having a significant influence for the kingdom of God was “May their tribe increase.”
You are 7 years old today. But one day, by God’s grace, you will have a tribe of your own and you will be setting the spiritual pace for your kids and grandkids and great grandkids. Let me tell you about an example worth following…
We read about Anna in Luke 2:36-38. Three verses. That’s all. But these 3 verses cement her legacy as a hero of the faith and as an example of a woman of God. Why??
Anna was a prophetess (v.36) – She knew the Word of God. She loved the Word of God. She treasured the Word of God. May God’s Word also be a treasure to you and provide nourishment for your soul as you grow up. It will sustain and comfort you in the darkest of days.
Anna was a worshiper (v.37) – She was astounded by God and expressed her astonishment often through worship. I can tell by the look on your face in this picture that you love to be astounded. Gaze often upon the beauty and majesty of the Lord and you will find yourself being constantly amazed.
Anna lived with gratitude (v.38) – Anna no doubt had much that she could have complained to God about. No doubt her life did not turn out as she dreamed when she was a young bride. But she chose to live gratefully instead of acrimoniously.
Anna pointed people to Jesus (v.38) – She “spoke of Him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Israel.” Anna was quick to tell others that Jesus was the One that gave meaning to her life and that He was the long awaited Messiah – the Savior of the world.
So I hope that you will take the time to ponder these three short verses and learn a few things from this humble woman of God. And as you do I will say once again… may your tribe increase.
And oh, by the way, Anna was coincidentally from the tribe of… Asher.
Never forget that you are very loved,
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