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And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased.” – Luke 2:8-14 ESV.
Dr. Luke in his characteristic way, tells the gospel story in what is his own unique (and inspired) way. His emphasis on Jesus’ care of the poor and the outcast of society begins here with the shepherd’s story. For reference, he would later discuss the poor and hungry in chapters 4:18, 6:20-21 as well. Luke’s role as a physician may have given him a unique bent toward this population, making him too, personally interested in the least among them.
Luke knew that shepherds were a rascally bunch. They were sweaty, earthy, hard-working, known to be poor, sometimes untrustworthy, and in this instance working the unpopular night shift. Yet, the news of the most important human event in history thus far in the story was announced to them. The birth of the one who would later refer to himself as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11) was told to the least of these. Here we read what they saw and heard. The host of heaven announces glory and peace because the Savior has come.
As I write this, I have Luke’s words and the music of Handel’s Messiah Oratorio dancing through my head. Try and hear the chorus with me: “Glory to God, Glory to God, Glory to God in the Highest! And peace on earth, good will toward men……” My reflection on this text and trying to muster in my head what hearing the host of heaven declaring these words must have sounded like, causes me to rejoice. I can’t help but think ahead to when we will all hear a chorus like this, among the redeemed of all time, with our Great Shepherd present to receive our praise.
Bereans, the day is not too far off where we will do this together. Until then, and for now, I wish you the Merriest Christmas!
With Love,
Pastor Mark
