“… there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock[s] by night.” (Luke 2:8)

Isaiah spoke of the Messiah as a shepherd feeding His flock and gathering His lambs. Therefore, it was to establish His role as the shepherd of Israel that Jesus was born in the land of, and announced to the world by Israel’s shepherds. Moreover, since Bethlehem was pasture to those lambs destined for sacrifice for the sins of the people in the temple, Jesus, the Lamb of God, was born in Bethlehem among the lambs of God.

“And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.” (Luke 2:9)

My friends, these were not just men who happened to be in the right place at the right time. They were ‘just’ men, righteous men, and were transfigured before God, and called by Him to prepare Israel to receive the Savior’s words. This was no accident.

“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” (Luke 2:10)

‘Gospel’ means ‘good tidings’ or ‘good news.’ And of all that ever has been or ever will be in this world that’s called ‘news,’ this was the greatest news of all! Oh, how great [is] the importance to make these things known unto the children of men, that they may know that there is no flesh that can dwell in the presence of God, save it be through the merits, mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah. The most important life ever lived, and the most meaningful mission ever given to a man, and now He was here.

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:11)

The greatest gift of all Christmas gifts – past, present, and future – was this one. God gave us His son. He is Jehovah, the God of your fathers, and He is mighty to save.

“And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, [and] lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:12)

Think of how this must have sounded to those shepherds. The Savior – a baby? The Messiah – Jehovah? – lying in a manger? This is extraordinary! But then again, this is no ordinary baby.

By this sign, by the angel telling them this, not only did the shepherds know Him when they found Him, but in every worthy sense, their faith was confirmed by that sign. They knew Him and they knew what He was – the moment they laid eyes on Him.

“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” (Luke 2: 13-14)

This was not just joy bursting forth in song. This reveals how Heaven viewed the Savior’s coming. It tells what they thought of Him, and what He was here for. Jesus came to earth to glorify the Father, and do His will upon the earth – and bring God’s peace to every troubled heart. Please note how Jesus was and still is the most joyful of music.

“And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.” And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.” (Luke 2:16-18)

Do you see it? Do you see why the shepherds are part of that story? They were born to be witnesses. Israel’s priests in Jerusalem were the authorized rightful shepherds who should have announced Him to the world, but they had devoured the flock and lost their place. Therefore, then as now, it is the weak and simple, the shepherds, who are honored to be the Lord’s first witnesses.

And why did the people wonder at their words? Well, that’s obvious. The Lord often tests our faith in His message by the messenger who delivers it.

And “… Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.” (Luke 2:19)
Line upon line, Mary learned who her son was, and what He was born to be. And she was quick to observe. Mary did not let these events dwindle in her memory ever. Forever, and ever, she kept this first Christmas in her heart, and pondered the real meaning until she understood – as should we. God bless.