Reading the Word

Luke 2:8–11 (ESV) — 8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. 10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

Understanding and Applying the Word

Yesterday, we read of the birth of Jesus Christ. We were amazed to see such humble conditions that welcomed the Messiah, the Son of God, into the world. We would expect so much more. However, it does not stop there. Today we read of the grand announcement of that birth. Again, we would expect news of such an important event to go to the most important people in all of the world or to be written in the sky for all to see. But that is not what happens. Jesus’ birth is announced to a few lowly shepherds out in a field tending their sheep. Have you ever stopped to think about the oddity of all of this?

Do not mistake meager and humble beginnings for lack of importance. The announcement of the angel to the shepherds makes it clear that the baby who was born and placed in a manger was of greatest importance. The angel came to announce “good news of great joy.” And the news was good because that baby was the Messiah and the Lord. Jesus came to be the Savior that we all need. He came to save us from our sins and bring us eternal life.

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