Unwrapping Christmas - Viewing the Nativity Through Luke's EyesSample

Day 22

Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night.   Luke 2:8

I would like to have been a shepherd.

I read that the shepherd jobs went to the young or those reaching up in years. Or, maybe those not so highly esteemed, or who preferred to be with lambs rather than being with people. Yet, they had a special calling – especially these shepherds in Bethlehem, not far from Jerusalem. They likely raised the sacrificial lambs sold in the magnificent temple of the Hebrews to atone for the people’s sin.

King David had been a shepherd as well in this neck of the woods during his youth. Even though his work and efforts were not counted as valuable by his own family, he encountered God as his Good Shepherd. And from those pastures, David was called to shepherd the people of Israel as their most noteworthy King. Once again, we see that Christmas is about remembering that God takes small and insignificant events and people to do profound works and wonders.

Oh, to have been with the crew out in the fields surrounding Bethlehem that cold, starry night! The good news of Jesus was first preached to these not-so-esteemed ones, and this gives me hope. It also knocks pride out of me. Jesus works when I know I have nothing to offer anyone without His touch. This is the lesson I learn from these humble-position folks.

So, what has He called us to do for Him? Whatever it is, you and I together need to remember the shepherds in the field. We will always serve and love Lord Jesus best when we realize that we are nothing without Him.