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The Shepherds and Angels 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 of great joy that will be for all the people . . .” Luke 2:8-14 “If ever there was an opportunity for God to enact his plan with a majestic flourish, it was at Jesus’ birth. Rather, God chose to identify in the humblest way with those made in his image. The story of Jesus’ birth in Luke mixes praise with simplicity . . . .
“As humble as the setting is, his birth is accompanied by the attention of the heavenly host. The shepherds who are privileged to share in the moment become bearers of a story full of wonder. Jesus’ birth is more than a cosmic event; it is the arrival of divine activity that should provoke joy, reflection and attentiveness . . . . “All these emotions flow from the experience of the shepherds, who observe with amazement as heaven confesses the child’s identity. The major offices of Jesus are confessed in one sentence: he is Savior, Lord and Christ – that is, deliverer, master and anointed king. As unbelievable as it may seem, the one with authority over salvation spends his first night not in a palace but in the open air among simple people like the shepherds.” - Selections from IVP New Testament Commentaries He will bring new light to a world in darkness, Like a bright star shining in the skies above; He will bring new hope to the waiting nations When he comes to reign in purity and love. Let the earth rejoice at the Saviour’s coming; Let the heavens answer with the joyful morn: Goria in excelsis Deo! Hear the angels singing “Christ is born.” - From Angels’ Carol by John Rutter Maggie Haggberg |
