“I think that someone is watching out for me, God, my guardian angel, I’m not sure who that is, but they’re working really hard.” -Mattie Stepanek 1990-2004, American Poet, Philosopher. Mattie had dysautonomic mitochondrial myopathy, a rare genetic disorder

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.  An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.  But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” –Luke 2:8-12 

God awarded shepherds a spectacular angelic presentation at night with a message to change the course of time, and they scurried to see the Savior. This week, we will hear sermons presented on Christmas Eve by leading theologians and preachers with high academic credentials. I wonder if any church will invite a farmer who tends livestock to speak for their Christmas celebration. 

Scottish theologian William Barclay wrote, “It is a lovely thought that the shepherds who looked after the Temple lambs were the first to see the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” 

After the shepherds had seen the infant Savior they “made known the statement which had been told them about the Child.” These not-named herdsmen became eloquent reporters about what they witnessed, and it has propelled the gospel for two thousand years. The humble of the pasture became authorities of the good news. 

The shepherds responded in marvelous fashion. Let’s “follow” their lead to the Good Shepherd. 

 Prayer:Almighty God, May we, like the shepherds, eagerly make known the light of salvation. Glory to God in the highest heaven and peace on earth! Amen