Read Luke 2:10-20
Have you gone tent camping? Things tend to get a little quieter after dark. Sometimes a log crackles on a campfire or an owl hoots in the distance.
Take a moment to read Luke 2:8-20, thinking about the shepherds as they were “camping” outside. Imagine what they saw, heard, and felt.
That night in the Judean countyside was likely quite ordinary until suddenly, heaven’s glory ripped through the stillness. First an angel appeared to the shepherds, and then the glory of God shined brightly all around them. They were scared stiff.
Quieting their fear, the angel brought a message, a birth announcement like no other. A baby Savior had been born and was wrapped in strips of material, and was lying in an animal’s feeding trough. Doesn’t that sound… bizarre? Then many more heavenly beings appeared and spoke. What an unforgettable night!
The shepherds sprang to action to confirm the angel’s message. The long-expected and hoped-for Messiah had arrived. The One whom Israel had awaited for hundreds of years had finally come. He would set His people free from sin and death and reconcile us to the Father. God in flesh was visible.
And these glad tidings were for every single person. The Maker of heaven and earth chose to reveal Himself to shepherds—people without social, economic, or political pull. He didn’t start with kings, dignitaries, the well to do, or political powerhouses. He revealed His glory and His coming first to the humble. Isn’t that encouraging? And doesn’t it seem fitting that He should announce the arrival of the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world to shepherds?
This is the love story of a compassionate, merciful, and just God coming to save those He loved. Just as Jesus entered a dark and dreary world more than 2000 years ago, the heavenly message of hope reaches out to us today. This news is for “all the people,” as the angel said. Total inclusion, not a person omitted. What joy to be included, what a joy to receive this message! Very good news indeed!
For Reflection:
- Try reading this passage in a different version of the Bible. Does that help you hear the wonder of this story?
- With lots to do to get ready for Christmas, how can you keep the joy of Jesus coming front and center?
- Who can you think of that needs tidings of comfort and joy?
* Place animal figures in the stable. Rulers are usually born in grand palaces, but Jesus’ Kingdom is different! He chose to be born in a humble place, among the animals.
by Nancy Perry
