In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.”
When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, “Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us.” So they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger. When they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child. And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart. The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them. ~ Luke 2:8-20
God could have chosen anyone to notify of Jesus’ birth with an angelic choir. But He didn’t choose kings or religious leaders or rich people. Instead, He chose the lowliest of people in Judea—the men who lived out of doors caring for sheep, often considered the dirtiest, smelliest, and stupidest of animals. Jesus was born and died for those same lowly shepherds—and for us, no matter who we are.
Thank You, Lord God, that Jesus came to the lowliest and poorest among us—that He came for the most sinful. He came for those of us who need a Savior. Everyone needs a Savior, but not everyone is humble enough to recognize and admit. I know I am a sinner. I know I am totally helpless on my own. I recognize my need for a Savior, and I thank You for sending Jesus to save me. In His name, I pray. Amen.
Image: © Depositphotos.com/zatletic