Shepherds Keeping Watch

Luke 2:8-11

“8 In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11 to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.”

The shepherds were watching their flocks on an ordinary night.  There was nothing out of the ordinary.  Some of the shepherds may have been tired and sleepy from the day’s work.  

Suddenly, an angel appeared before them and a strange light emitted from him and surrounded them.  The shepherds were terrified to say the least.   Throughout the Bible, the first words of angels to people they encounter is “fear not.”  Apparently, their appearance is not the appearance of humans.  

Then the shepherds were told the good news.  The Messiah had been born.  The savior of the world was in the world.

The first people, other than Mary and Joseph, that God informed of the incarnation were lowly shepherds.  The greatest news in the history of humankind was not delivered to kings, diplomats, CEO’s, military commanders or religious leaders.

This news was given to people of no influence, no power, no education,  and no material wealth. 

Shepherds, watching their flocks by night, were given the news of all news.

The Messiah had been born.

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)