35 and so reveal their secret thoughts. And sorrow, like a sharp sword, will break your own heart.”
36-37 There was a very old prophet, a widow named Anna, daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Asher. She had been married for only seven years and was now 84 years old. She never left the Temple; day and night she worshipped God, fasting and praying.
38 That very same hour she arrived and gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were waiting for God to set Jerusalem free.
39 When Joseph and Mary had finished doing all that was required by the law of the Lord, they returned to their home town of Nazareth in Galilee.
40 The child grew and became strong; he was full of wisdom, and God's blessings were upon him.
41 Every year the parents of Jesus went to Jerusalem for the Passover Festival.
42 When Jesus was twelve years old, they went to the festival as usual.