The answer is: 84

Luke 2:37

To dive into the story of Anna, the prophetess, let's take a moment to reflect on her life and significance in the Gospel of Luke. Anna is described as an elderly widow who dedicated her life to worship, prayer, and fasting at the temple. At a remarkable 84 years old, she embodies the biblical ideals of perseverance and devotion. Isn’t it inspiring to think about someone devoting so much of their life to service and spirituality?

When Anna saw Jesus as an infant, she burst into praise at the revelation that this child would redeem Jerusalem. This moment captures a strong link between the old and the new—Anna, representing the faithful from the past, rejoices in the arrival of hope that the new covenant brings. Some might call them divine bookends; prophets like Anna—a lover of wisdom—are voices that echo through generations, connecting past prophecies with their breathtaking fulfillment.

Interestingly, Anna is one of the few women mentioned in the New Testament who actively proclaims Jesus’ significance during His infancy, which highlights the often-overlooked essential roles women played in early Christianity. Her age serves as a reminder that wisdom often comes with experience, making her praises even more profound. Next time you hear about Anna, remember that her spirit of joy echoes for folks of every age and background, forever inspiring our own journeys of faith and understanding!