It's Christmas time! As Christians, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
The past few weeks we've looked at some of the key people, a few of the well-known places, the reality of problems associated with The Story of Christmas, and the true purpose of Christmas.
Today we take our final look at the second chapter of the gospel of Luke.

At least four families in the church have had babies in the past five months of this year. The birth of a child stirs family and friends of the newborn to proclaim to one-and-all, the happy event. Over the years, learning of the birth of a baby has changed.

This morning we'll look at how the birth of Jesus impacted a group of people and then the news spread as they told others The Story of Christmas.
Let's begin with a quick review of verses 4-7 in Luke chapter 2.

Bethlehem was about 5 miles south of Jerusalem. It served as a stopover for trade and military as people passed through the middle of the land.
At times in history, it was a fortified city which would cause the normal 200-300 population to swell over 1,000. Its name means "House of Bread" and is a reference to the fertile nature of the land around the village. Many homes in Bethlehem were built over or in front of caves, where they often kept their livestock stabled and stored grain for the animals.
The Bible links Bethlehem to the burial place of Rachel, Jacob's wife, whose tomb is still seen today.
Bethlehem is also the location for the story and book of Ruth, the birthplace of King David, near where David conquered Goliath, and his battles against the Philistines.

Now we'll look at those who first saw Jesus after He was born and then proclaimed the news far and wide.

1. The Shepherds' MANNER of life.
Luke 2:8

While the act of shepherding was well understood, the occupation and profession of shepherding was looked down upon by people in Jewish culture. They were viewed as outcasts in nearly every area of their life; religiously, socially, legally, and culturally.
God's announcement to these shepherds teaches us that He truly cares about, values, and has a plan for every single person on earth.

2. The Shepherds' MIRACULOUS encounter.
Luke 2:9-14

Miraculous: "outside of natural laws and human explanation"
Along with an angel (messenger), we see The Shechinah (or aura of brightness). We see this often in the Bible symbolizing God's divine presence.
In vv. 10-11 Gabriel the Angel demonstrates how to speak in a positive way that will encourage the hearts of others.
In vv. 12-14 Gabriel announces the birth of Jesus

3. The Shepherds' MOMENT that changed their lives.
Luke 2:15-16

Many of us have had moments that have changed our life entirely...they are called pivot points. But have you had a moment that changed your life for eternity??
Last week we learned that Jesus came into the world to be our Savior. He came to save us from something and for something. That moment requires a conscious choice - to repent of our sin and to have faith in Jesus alone.

4. The Shepherds' MISSION is why they are remembered.
Luke 2:17-20

The reality of their moment with Jesus was demonstrated by a transformation in their passions and their priorities. They were stirred into action.
Good questions to ask ourselves:
1. If you have encountered Jesus in your life, what transformation has taken place?
2. Has there been any change in the passions and priorities of your life?
3. What kind of action has knowing Jesus stirred up in you?

The shepherds heard the words of the angels and talked with Joseph and Mary and then they spread the word! They became story tellers! Telling His Story and our story to those we encounter. And when we do, the potential of impact can leave people amazed (v. 18).
The Shepherds have been remembered for their willingness to tell others The Story of Christmas. Their transformation was seen in the communication of the Story - God's and their own.

Soon it will be a new year and you will be encountering scores of people...many who don't know Jesus as their Savior.
God will be providing you opportunities to be a shepherd; to demonstrate the reality of your faith and be a story teller. You just might amaze someone!