An ordinary evening, they thought. “We can light a fire, huddle round, and watch the sheep dozing. Hopefully it will be a quiet night.”
It just so happened that God had a different plan.
Suddenly the peace and quiet was broken. A messenger from God, an angel, appeared and spoke reassuringly: “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.” (Luke 2 v10)
These shepherds, the lowest of the low, are sent to Bethlehem as eyewitnesses to the arrival of the Messiah- the baby born to Mary. Before they could get over the shock and “explain it all away” a host of angels arrived as backup, praising God and proclaiming glory and peace.
I find it hard to imagine that a “host” of angels would be anything other than awe-inspiring as they spoke/shouted/sang… so much for a “quiet night.”
How very fitting that it was shepherds who witnessed the arrival of Jesus, the Lamb of God – “who takes away the sin of the world.”
May your Christmas Eve be special- and your Christmas Day a celebration of hope and Love. Peace and grace be with you!
Look, See, Pray 