84 and counting...

And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;
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.
And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
Luke 2:36-38


Wow. This lady was married  (I'm guessing in her early to mid teens because of the culture of the place and time?) & remained married until her husband died seven years later. Now she is 84 years old and since her husband's death has not departed from the temple but is serving God night and day with fastings and prayers. How is her body even capable of this at an old age? She obviously brought her body into subjection and cared more about serving the Lord God daily than living for herself. She lost something dear to her, and committed the rest of her life to giving every part of it for what she held most dear: her Maker.
Not only does she spend her nights and days with God in service and thanks to him, but she worships him by speaking of the Lord to 'all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem'. How did she know who was looking? She must have been intentionally looking for them. She must have had the ability to discern such things.We read nothing about whether or not souls are won or if lives accept redemption through Christ, but we know she is obedient to look for those in need and shares with them the treasure and Salvation of her life.
It seems that at the death of her husband she chooses to die to herself and is made alive in the Lord alone. How much exceeding joy I would have if my every second was intentional in service and worship to my Lord and those in need of Him! I doubt I would ever seek fulfillment anywhere else.