# Now

This word is used here to mark a change in the main story. Luke quickly moves from the birth of John to the beginning of John's ministry as an adult.

# became strong in spirit

"became spiritually mature" or "strengthened his relationship with God"

# was in the wilderness

"lived in the wilderness." Luke does not say at what age John began to live in the wilderness.

# until the day of his public appearance to Israel

"when he began to preach in public to Israel"