While Shepherds Watched
Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. - Luke 2:8-9
While shepherds faithfully watched over their sheep, outside on this dark night, all of a sudden an angel stood before them and the glory of the Lord illuminated the darkness all about them. They were in awe at the heavenly sight. Maybe they covered their eyes to shield themselves from the brightness or stared at the angel completely speechless. The angel spoke to them:
“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.” (Luke 2:11).
Can you believe that? These insignificant shepherds were chosen to hear about the birth of Christ. Contained within these good tidings was His purpose for coming. He was to be the Savior––for all people. For confirmation of the angel’s words, they could go and find the Babe, wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger in the city of David.
Then instantly the night sky was filled with a multitude of heavenly host––angels praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:14). It is important to understand God’s heart towards mankind is for good. He desires for everyone to rejoice at this good news; not one person has been excluded from the opportunity to find His peace and salvation through Christ.
For my eyes have seen Your salvation
Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples…
~Luke 2:30-31~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!
