Center for Evangelists

Anna, a prophet, was also there in the Temple. She was the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher, and was very old. She was a widow, for her husband had died when they had been married only seven years.

Probably, after her husbands death, Anna would have been encouraged to get married again and have children. Anna, chose to stay single. She chose to serve the Lord. She chose to fast and pray, worshiping the Lord day and night. She told people the news of the Savior that was coming, no matter how long it might be before he came. She knew her purpose and she didn’t let anyone’s opinions or comments keep her from it. Then Anna saw Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus in the temple and knew her purpose had been fulfilled.

Luke 2:36-38 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 i

The account of the wise men who came to worship Jesus is found in Matthew 2:1-12. Tradition says they were three kings who came from the east but the country they came from is not mentioned. They were thought to be 3 because of the number of gifts and kings because of the value of the gold, frankincense and myrrh.

They followed a star which appeared in the heavens until they came to Jerusalem and inquired of Herod where the King was born. Herod wanted to know more about this baby and asked the wise men to bring news of His whereabouts when they found Him. They continued to follow the star, presented their gifts and worshiped Jesus.

Jesus was not in the manger at the time the wise men found him, as is often pictured in Christmas cards and manger scenes, but was now a young child as the Bible states. Probably about 2 years old or a little younger and was in a house with Mary his mother. Then being warned in a dream the wise men went a different way back to their country and did not report to Herod.

There is a saying,”Wise men still seek Him”. Are you seeking Jesus? What He wants is our desire to follow Him as the wise men followed the star and to worship Him and give the gift of ourselves to Him. Are you wise?

Matthew 2:1-2 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him