“…Do not be afraid, I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today a Saviour has been born to you…” – Luke 2:10-11 (NIV)
The first people to hear about Jesus’ birth were the shepherds, humble, working-class men tending their flocks at night near Bethlehem (Luke 2:8). “Do not be afraid” reveals that God’s purpose was not judgement but grace; it prepares anyone with a shepherd’s heart, or even the readers, to understand that this encounter is not about wrath, but reconciliation.
God is reaching out in love.
These men were specifically chosen to be witnesses for the Messiah, emphasising the trustworthy role that demonstrates divine selection. When the angels appeared and told them that the Saviour, Jesus, was born, they didn’t ignore the message; they responded immediately, saying, “…Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that happened, which the Lord has told us about – Luke 2:15-16 (NIV). Faith and obedience were on display from ordinary shepherds. They were willing to leave their valuable flocks behind and follow God’s call. A powerful reminder that ordinary people do respond to the extraordinary call of Jesus Christ.
We are called to do the extraordinary!
After seeing the Baby Jesus, the shepherds spread the good news of what they had heard and seen. (Luke 2:17). They became the first messengers of the Gospel, telling others about Jesus with joy and excitement. Brethren, we are also called to be faithful like the shepherds who shepherded in the dark. They were the first to be shepherded by God’s light. When we follow God’s call, we become messengers of the same light to others.
Yes,
- God often calls ordinary people to do essential things.
- When we listen, trust and act on God’s call, He uses us for His purpose.
- You don’t have to be powerful or wealthy for God to use you – just be willing to follow Him.
Like the shepherds, let us celebrate Jesus in our daily lives, sharing Him with others, regardless of our circumstances. God knows our hearts.
Prayer
Gracious God and Father, we give You thanks. Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, into this world to fulfil His purpose here on earth. You are the perfect example for all mankind. Help us to know our purpose and calling, for You care for all of us, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Read: Psalm 23:1; Isaiah 40:11
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 29:10-18; 1 John 2:28-29; 1 John 3:1-10; Daniel 8:15-27; Daniel 9:1-19