Luke 2:8-12 (ESV) says, “And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.  And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear.  And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.  And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.’"

Why shepherds?  True, they worked late.  In the dark.  Protected their sheep, even gave their lives.  They were handy, knew about birthing, lambs at least.  But they were dirty and smelly, often outcasts, known sinners.

The angel found them, scared them, told them.  God’s glory shone all around.  Good news!  Christ the Lord is born.  God offers peace.  No questions asked.  The heavenly host filled the sky.  Praising and singing.  Want to know more?  See the child.  What would you do?

They went.  Abandoned their shift.  Trusted the sheep to God.  Saw

the child, Mary, Joseph.        Shared the good news.  Mary pondered,

treasured.  Luke 2:20 says, “And the shepherds returned [to their sheep], glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.”

What have you heard and seen?  See the child!?

Pastor Raymond Van Buskirk, Redeemer Lutheran Church, Baytown, TX www.rlcbaytown.org