In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock at night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood near them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. And so the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

 

What is the best news you have ever received? Maybe it was acceptance into a program or school you applied for. Maybe it was a long-awaited announcement. Maybe it was an all-clear from the doctor, after holding your breath waiting for results. As we enter this Advent season, we are reminded of the best news ever given or received—news of the coming Messiah. But God’s announcement to the world did not come through a loudspeaker for all to hear. It was not told specifically to the religiously elite. It was proclaimed on a normal night, to average shepherds as they went about their daily work.

 

The way God chose to share this good news through these shepherds is an encouragement today wherever we find ourselves. We may not consider our roles important. We may feel overlooked by people or even God. But in the same way God saw the shepherds and chose to share this life changing, world-altering, magnificent news with them, He has shared this wonderful news with you. Through His Word and His people, God has made Himself known to you. Through Jesus, He has made Himself accessible to you. Through the Spirit, He has invited you into the grand narrative of redemption just like He did for the shepherds that night. This is truly good news for all people! God has come to be with us! Let’s rejoice!

 

  • How has the good news of the Messiah changed your life?
  • How did you first hear the message of the gospel? How have you shared it with others?
  • Praise God for bringing you the good news of the Messiah.