From Luke 2:8-20 (NIV): “ 8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to 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. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”

Wow, can you imagine a visit from God, telling you to go, see this amazing child, for he will “cause great joy for all the people”? It is easy to relate as to why the shepherds were terrified by such a visit; what an incredible and scary experience they witnessed. The trip into Bethlehem must have been followed by intense anticipation of what was to come and surrounded by mystery as to why they were chosen by the angels to be among the first to visit the Christ child.

We often wonder, why we were chosen to be blessed so many times over by God? Why aren’t we the starving person, who is cold and isn’t sure of how they are going to feed their kids their next meal? Like the shepherds, we too, have been sought out by God. His blessings can be returned through taking time to adore Christ and praising His Name. Taking time to celebrate His love through prayer, and by loving and serving others, not just at Christmas, but throughout the year. Take time to celebrate Christ’s birthday and remember the meaning of the season. Then, when the Christmas season is over, continue to be a shepherd of God. Scatter some joy to others and share God’s love and word.

Dear God, thank you for the gift of your son, Jesus, and his magnificent lessons and salvation he gave to us. Teach us to be like the shepherds, to adore Christ, and to tend to flocks of people, rather than sheep. You have taught us that good shepherds watch out all of their flock, so tending to one is equally as great as tending to many. All are important and all make a difference. Thanks for your blessings upon us. Come let us adore Him! Amen.

Wendy Saatoff