36-38 Anna the prophetess was also there, a daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher. She was by now a very old woman. She had been married seven years and a widow for eighty-four. She never left the Temple area, worshiping night and day with her fastings and prayers. At the very time Simeon was praying, she showed up, broke into an anthem of praise to God, and talked about the child to all who were waiting expectantly for the freeing of Jerusalem.

39-40 When they finished everything required by God in the Law, they returned to Galilee and their own town, Nazareth. There the child grew strong in body and wise in spirit. And the grace of God was on him.

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message Women's Devotional Bible: The Gospels - eBook
The Message Women's Devotional Bible: The Gospels - eBook
Retail: $9.99
Our Price: $7.99
Save: $2.00 (20%)
The Message Compact, Leather-Look
The Message Compact, Leather-Look
Retail: $29.99
Our Price: $4.88
Save: $25.11 (84%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message The Book of Psalms
The Message The Book of Psalms
Retail: $8.99
Our Price: $8.98
Save: $0.01 (0%)
The Message Prayerful Reading Bible, Softcover
The Message Prayerful Reading Bible, Softcover
Retail: $29.99
Our Price: $19.29
Save: $10.70 (36%)
The Message, Large Print Premium Leather, Black
The Message, Large Print Premium Leather, Black
Retail: $149.99
Our Price: $149.98
Save: $0.01 (0%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars