“…Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy…Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.” – Luke 2: 10 – 11 (NIV)
Celebrations are often approached with anticipation and excitement. Joy abounds whether it’s a milestone birthday, a promotion, a declaration of healing from illness, or even more momentous – the birth of a child. We know how to mark such occasions with parties, the sharing of gifts, abundant food, and music. These are moments of laughter and joy. Similarly, the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, was announced with divine fanfare.
In Luke 2:8-11, we read of shepherds tending their flocks at night in the quiet fields of Bethlehem. These men were likely tired from their day’s work, some perhaps dozing while others chatted quietly, ever alert to protect their sheep from danger, who also were resting in the calm and stillness of the night.
Suddenly, that stillness was interrupted: “An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified” (Luke 2:9 – NIV). Imagine the confusion and fear that must have gripped the shepherds as the glory of God illuminated the night sky. But the angel reassured them, bringing a message that would forever change the world: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10 – NIV).
At that moment, the shepherds, who had been minding their daily responsibilities, became the first to hear of the greatest event in human history: “…a Saviour has been born…He is the Messiah, the Lord” (Luke 2:11 – NIV). This was not just any announcement – it was the fulfilment of ancient prophecies (Isaiah 9:6-7, Micah 5:2). The long-awaited Messiah, the hope of Israel and the world, had arrived.
This joyous news was not delivered to the rich or powerful first but to the ordinary people – the shepherds, those who were often overlooked in society. And it’s a message for us today.
Jesus came for everyone: for the man struggling with addiction, the person searching for meaning, the woman who feels lost in her sorrow, the man who is rich and successful yet empty inside, and those who feel forgotten. He came for the brokenhearted, the weary, the sinner, and the saint alike. Jesus, the Messiah, came to bring Salvation to all, no matter where you are or what you’ve done.
Just as the angels proclaimed peace and joy that night, the same message is echoed today: Jesus is here. He meets you where you are, with open arms, offering grace, redemption, and love. All we need to do is surrender to Him, and He will transform our lives.
Prayer
Father, we thank You for the indescribable gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You that He is the promised Messiah, the Saviour of the world. May His love, joy, and peace fill our hearts as we surrender to Him. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 137; 1 John 3:11-24; 1 John 4:1-6; Daniel 9:20-27; Daniel 10; Daniel 11:1
