Luke 2:15

New King James Version

So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.”

For Encouragement

The joy of Christmas is not in the gifts we share, the sumptuous family meals, or our talking and laughter. It is not in the music, dancing, church attendance. It is in inviting Jesus into our homes, sitting at His feet, and feasting on His wonder—the wonder of His birth and the stories wrapped around the narrative. The hype and shopping excitement fade, replaced by the anxiety of the coming year. What gives us the best joy of Christmas is feeling spiritually refreshed and prepared to enter the New Year with Jesus, filled with renewed vision and hope. That was the shepherd’s experience in the open country near Bethlehem.

Heaven’s King, who brings us joy, came to earth in Bethlehem on a typical day; well, not so regular because of the overflowing streets with returnees for Herod’s census. The evening temperatures were dipping fast and biting into the wintery night. The returnees made their rounds, greeting their family members and neighbors they had long missed. They sat and squatted around the evening meals, reminiscing about their lives into late night. Oblivious to the most significant visitation they ever had—the very Messiah Israel had long awaited—they retired for the night, exhausted.

The heavens opened in the fields nearby, and an angel surprised some shepherds tending their flock. The glory of the Lord surrounded them. Imagine the sudden brightness that shattered the darkness; how could anybody stay composed? The surprising announcement filled their peaked ears.

“Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger (Lk, 2:10-12).

With a surprising display of heaven’s flawless musical arrangement, a company of the angelic choir seamlessly broke out into formation, praising God and saying,

Glory to God in the highest,

And on earth peace, goodwill toward men! (14).

What a night! What a privilege!

They recovered quickly and rushed to Bethlehem to welcome the Savior and to worship Him. They had a unique testimony to share, which bewildered those who heard them (17-18).

But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart (19).

Overwhelmed with joy, the shepherds returned to the field, glorifying, and praising God for all they had heard and seen that confirmed the angelic manifestation.

That is the beauty of Christmas, brethren! It is a time to celebrate with the heavenly angelic orchestra on Christmas night and witness the presence of Immanuel. We, too, have a unique testimony to share, which will amaze all who hear us.

So, let’s get it out and proclaim to the world that Jesus, the Savior, is born in Bethlehem, the town of David. Then, we can joyfully give glory and praise to God as we enter the new year. Hallelujah!

Pray with Me

Lord, you know how Bethlehem slept while the shepherds returned to their flock, praising, and worshiping you. Many people are sleeping in our time, oblivious to the Light that gives life we celebrate at Christmas. Help us share the Good News of your grace that saves us in Christ Jesus, amen.