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
In Jesus’ day, shepherds were held in low esteem. Shepherds couldn’t worship in the Temple because they were considered “unclean.” Shepherds were generally not trusted and were not allowed to give testimony regarding legal proceedings. No one wanted to be a shepherd, but it was a job when you could not find other work.
In this Bible passage, the angels appeared to shepherds with the first public declaration of the Savior. The Son of God is now among men! The Prince of Heaven is a baby in Bethlehem, and God selected a group of shepherds to hear the news first. Why shepherds? Why not kings, priests, or prophets? Because Jesus is not just for the rich, the good, or the best. Jesus is for all of us, even the lowest of sinners like me.
Heavenly Father, I thank You that you sent Jesus to save the world. I’m grateful that You sent the angels to the shepherds, and because of that, I know Jesus was sent to me as well. Thank You for cleaning the dirty, loving the unworthy, being the friend of sinners, and transforming rebels until they become Your beloved children. Thank You for loving me and forgiving me of my sins. In Jesus name, Amen.
