December 12th
The day had come to an end and David felt everything was settled, with eyes that were heavy he climbed into bed. Dad entered the room to tuck him in, when David sat bolt upright and said…
“Dad, did the angel appear to the shepherds because they were the only ones awake?”
“Well, they would certainly be awake – watching the sheep.”
“So, when would the shepherds get some sleep?”
“I would guess they would work as part of a group and take it in turns to sleep. The sight of an angel would certainly make them sit up! Now, snuggle down and close your eyes. Night-night God bless – see you in the morning.”
So much is left out of stories; often it’s assumed we know things, and perhaps the parts left out, are perceived not necessary to the story. Shepherds in those days would be regarded as some of the lowest in society. This was work for single men, young boys or older men who could no longer do heavy work.
There is a long history of shepherds in the bible. Abraham, Jacob, the boy David who became king and the prophet Amos. Jesus also referred to himself as the good shepherd.
But it was to these lowly shepherds that the birth of Christ was first announced by an angel of God. Glory be to God in the highest and on earth peace to men.
A connection had been made between heaven and earth. The message had been given to men who were about their normal work.
No matter what we may think of ourselves, there will have been times when we felt worthless and lower than any of the creatures. Jesus the Christ connected heaven and earth for people such as us – that we may feel his peace and discover new life in him.
Luke 2: 8-9 Shepherds watching
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.
Prayer
Father God, we thank you for announcing the birth of your Son, Jesus the Christ. Who existed, with you and the Holy Spirit, before all creation. Thank you for revealing the promise of a new creation that is not dependant on our strength or position but is free to all who will receive it. Help me Lord, not to leave things out of my story but to consider all things through your grace. Amen.
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Tomorrow – Putting things right