The Angels’ Appearance to the Shepherds
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.”
— Luke 2:8–11
With the exception of Mary and Joseph, God reveals Himself exclusively to the shepherds—the nothings of the Jewish world, the very least of Jewish people. Unlike the Magi, God appears to them in glory and speaks through His angel to them. In so doing, God makes the least of these, the night watch shepherds, the most privileged people on the earth.
I know how they felt. I’ve never thought a lot about myself. I was fortunate to survive my childhood in Oklahoma. I never aspired to be anything more than a mailman. But God comes to the very least of us with his glory and grace, and asks us to follow Him. I have not looked back! Amen.
Christmas
Reflections
Winter 2025 Inscribed
- Longing for Immanuel | Dr. Nikki Jordan
- A ‘Counselor’ for Our Every Need | Norah Hager
- Joseph and Overcoming Shame | Dr. Jim Keena
- A Full Inn and a New Reality | Dr. Derry Long
- The Privileged Shepherds | Dr. Jay Smith
- Summons to an Angelic Song | Dr. Joshua Schendel
- Pondering God’s Love with Mary | Dr. Roy Millhouse
- The Magi – No Longer at Ease | Dr. Brett Desper