We studied the Christmas story this morning at church. It was discussed why the angels would come to the shepherds and not to someone else a bit more important. These were lowly men who were far from being distinguished.They went about their everyday lives and everyday jobs. I dare say they expected nothing but routine in their lives. There was a census being conducted in town and it was an extremely busy time with the overabundance of people in town. It was even said that some people were sleeping in caves with animals.
We find the shepherds outside of the city watching the sheep. They are helping to watch over the sheep that will become sacrifices for the sacrifice at the temple. These are pretty important sheep. How else are the people of God to ask for atonement of sins without a sacrifice? Before they know what has hit them, though, an angelic host comes and scares them beyond scared. I do find it a bit humorous the angel said, “Do not fear, I bring you good news.” Did the angel feel they felt it was going to be bad news? To give the shepherds credit, though, I would be beyond scared, as well, seeing that God had been silent for 400 years at this point in history. The fact that He would choose to speak to me to break His silence would be overwhelming.
The shepherds obeyed well and did as the angels told them to do. They went and found the Christ child. What a wonderful moment for Mary and Joseph. They both had an encounter with an angel before Christ was born and now just after Mary had Jesus there are shepherds who arrive on the scene to confirm all God has told Joseph and Mary. What a wonderful moment for the shepherds. They encountered God as they walked upon the scene of the manger. They were looking into the face of God. Suddenly, the not-so-important people were given the first opportunity to see God in human form.
So, I ask myself the question, “Am I a shepherd?” Remember how important those sheep were to the temple sacrifices? The shepherds left them all and obeyed God? Who took care of the sheep? I think we underestimate God many times when He tells us to move in a certain area of our lives. We over analyze who will take our place. We wonder how the job will get done without us. Seriously, we all know dumb sheep cannot take care of themselves…someone has to watch them, right? The shepherds leave all that up to God.
Why would God ask us to do something if He didn’t fully intend to take care of the entire situation? We must fully believe and follow God as though we were shepherds. I dare say, if we act like the shepherds we just might encounter Christ along the way. Will you pledge to be a shepherd this advent season?
© 2012 Susan M. Sims
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