28. Simeon took the child in his arms and gave thanks to God:
29. “Now, Lord, you have kept your promise,and you may let your servant go in peace.
30. With my own eyes I have seen your salvation,
31. which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples:
32. A light to reveal your will to the Gentilesand bring glory to your people Israel.”
33. The child's father and mother were amazed at the things Simeon said about him.
34. Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother, “This child is chosen by God for the destruction and the salvation of many in Israel. He will be a sign from God which many people will speak against
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.