"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night." Luke 2:8

It began just like any other night on the Judean hills. The sheep settled for the night. The shepherds gathered around their campfire, sharing a last cup of coffee before the guards took their positions, and the rest found a place to sleep. They took their job very seriously. This flock was special because from it would come the lambs designated for sacrifice in the temple.

But this night would be different. There would be no sleep for any of them. The sky suddenly became filled with a strange light. Their hearts filled with fear. What was happening?

Luke 2:10-11 "And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."

They were familiar with the promise of a redeemer that would come. All their lives they had waited for it to happen. Now, the angel was telling them that this Saviour had indeed been born that very night in the city of David.

Luke 2:13-14 "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, goodwill toward men."

As the angels sang of peace on earth, the shepherds did not hesitate. They did not have to question the angel for directions. They knew exactly where to go. Where else would Messiah be born than in the shed where they laid the newly born lambs? Leaving their sheep, they hurried to Bethlehem to see the Baby. and to worship Him. Then they spread the glad tidings to all they met.

Luke 2:20 "And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them."

Thought For Today: May we take time this Christmas season to worship, not a baby in a manger, but the Christ who came as our Saviour and Lord. And may we, like the shepherds, proclaim Him to others, so that they too will worship Him.

Devotion by: Anne Johnston