The shepherds were not powerful, educated, or influential. They were ordinary working the night shift, watching over sheep on the outskirts of the city and society—yet they were the first to hear the good news of Christ’s birth. God did not send the angels to a palace, but to a pasture, reminding us the gospel is not reserved for the elite; it is entrusted to the humble and the willing. The angels brought them the good news in the dark and lonely hillside, and they were understandably afraid. But the words of the angels brought comfort and then wonder and awe:
“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.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:10-14, NIV)
What stands out is how the shepherds respond. They do not debate or delay. They go “with haste” to Bethlehem. After seeing the child, they become the first evangelists, sharing what they had been told. Their encounter with Jesus changes them—returning to their fields, yes, but now filled with praise and wonder. Christmas begins not with comfort, but with obedience; not with status, but with faith. And for all who respond to God’s great love with faith, wonder and joy.
Prayer
Gracious God, You still speak to hearts that are open and attentive. Help us to hear Your good news even in the ordinary moments of our lives. Give us the courage of the shepherds—to go where You lead, to worship with wonder, and to share Your love and hope with joy. May we return to our daily work transformed by having seen Christ. Amen.
Quote of the Week
“God still reveals His greatest glory to those who are simply watching and willing to go.”
Listen to recent sermons by Dr. TJ Jenney YouTube & YouTube
Podcast on Spotify: Inspire Messages
“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.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:10-14, NIV)
What stands out is how the shepherds respond. They do not debate or delay. They go “with haste” to Bethlehem. After seeing the child, they become the first evangelists, sharing what they had been told. Their encounter with Jesus changes them—returning to their fields, yes, but now filled with praise and wonder. Christmas begins not with comfort, but with obedience; not with status, but with faith. And for all who respond to God’s great love with faith, wonder and joy.
Prayer
Gracious God, You still speak to hearts that are open and attentive. Help us to hear Your good news even in the ordinary moments of our lives. Give us the courage of the shepherds—to go where You lead, to worship with wonder, and to share Your love and hope with joy. May we return to our daily work transformed by having seen Christ. Amen.
Quote of the Week
“God still reveals His greatest glory to those who are simply watching and willing to go.”
Listen to recent sermons by Dr. TJ Jenney YouTube & YouTube
Podcast on Spotify: Inspire Messages
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