Over the years, as I've been privileged to travel in a variety of countries, I've seen many unusual sights. One of the most memorable was when my sister and I stayed in Venice, Italy, for a few days before a cruise. We were walking through one of the crowded shopping areas. Much to our surprise, a man walked out of one of the tourist stores carrying a lamb, much like someone might carry around a large dog. Its legs were dangling loosely and it didn't seem a bit upset at its odd perch. The man showed no distress either, as though he always walked around with a lamb in his arms.

While it's odd to see a man carrying a lamb in the throng of tourists in Venice, it's not hard to visualize the shepherds carrying one of their lambs, perhaps a newborn, in their arms as they hastened to see the Baby "wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger." (Luke 2:12b NLT) They had been peacefully guarding their sheep when an angel announced the "good news that will bring joy to all people. The Savior — yes, the Messiah, the Lord — has been born today in Bethlehem!" (Luke 2:10b-11 NLT) With the angel's description in mind, they hastened to the village to see Him.

Why was this glorious event first announced to lowly shepherds? They had no power, influence, or fabulous gifts to bring, like the Magi did.

• Some speculate that these shepherds were the ones who guarded the animals intended for temple sacrifice, pointing to Jesus, as "The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." (John 1:29b NLT)
• The Israelites had a shepherding heritage, starting with Abel, the son of Adam and Eve. The patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, had huge flocks. During the Exodus, the Israelites brought "great flocks and herds of livestock". (Exodus 12:38 NLT) David, the future king, started as the shepherd of his family's flocks.
• Isaiah points to Jesus as one who "will feed his flock like a shepherd. He will carry the lambs in his arms, holding them close to his heart." (Isaiah 40:11 NLT)
• Jesus said, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep." (John 10:11 NLT)

However they were chosen, the shepherds responded to the angel's message and came willingly and joyfully to see Jesus. All they had to bring was their praise and worship as an offering. Then, they "told everyone what had happened." (Luke 2:17a NLT)

Romans 10:14b,15b – And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? That is why the Scriptures say, "How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!" (NLT)

As we celebrate His birth this season, let's follow the shepherds' example, coming to Jesus willingly and joyfully, and then, spreading the good news of His love for us.

Prayer: Lord, help us, like the shepherds, to tell others about You. Amen.