There were some shepherds in that part of the country who were spending the night in the fields, taking care of their flocks. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone over them. They were terribly afraid, but the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all people. For today in the city of David a Savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord. And this is what will prove it to you; you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger."
This passage from Matthew’s Gospel is my favorite part of the infancy narratives. The words used to describe the birth of our Lord and Savior are beautiful, simple, and yet so profound. As the aAngel proclaims these words to the shepherds, we only can imagine the fear they experienced, and the many questions that entered their minds.
Why would a messenger of God, a heavenly angel proclaim this glorious birth to a group of lowly shepherds?
Even more shocking, the angel proclaims that this child, this savior, can be found in a manger! A lowly place where animals sleep and feed. In this passage, the shepherds, who represent the poorest class of people, are some of the first to know of Jesus’ birth. This revelation helps us to realize that this new born baby, who came from the humblest of beginnings, is truly the savior of us all. A newborn king sent to live among us, this child born who would one day save the world...
As we spend these next few days with our family and friends gathered together let us not forget the reason we celebrate Christmas. Let us hold the message of the Shepherds’ angel in our hearts, as we behold the newborn king. Let us also not forget those who are far less fortunate. Keep them in your prayers, that they may know peace and love. Let us also pray for our men and women in the service and their families as many of them are far from home. May they all experience the joy of Christmas.
In two thousand years, millions have followed the star, searched for the stable, discovered the new born child, and yet from generation to generation, across the passing centuries, the joy never dims, the good news never loses its power to bring us to our knees in adoration. For each time a searching heart finds Christ, the Savior, the angels sing, heaven rejoices, and Christmas, Blessed Christmas, comes again.
I wish you all God’s blessings in the new year. Have a wonderful Christmas.