The Shepherds Are Coming

The angels appeared to the shepherds.  Why the Shepherds?  The Shepherds were faithful to fulfill their jobs, no matter what the conditions were.  When the Shepherd called his sheep by name, if one was missing, he hedged in the other sheep, and left to find the lost sheep.  He went out through the snow, rain, cold, and heat.  The shepherd had walked, watched, and protected the sheep all day.  Now, worn out from the stress of the day, he goes out into the night to find his sheep.  He will lay down his life if necessary to help his sheep.  No wonder God appeared to these faithful shepherds to tell them His Son was to be born.
                          
                               O HOLY NIGHT

These were shepherds that sold their sheep to the people      

that would  bring their sacrifice to the Temple.

  When they found the babe, they went everywhere telling

The good news, the Messiah is born.  Every time they sold their sheep, the

Shepherds would retell the story.  The Priest, Scribes, and Pharisees were

steeped in their tradition.  Their focus would be on keeping the law and getting the

Ceremonies correct.  The Shepherds were interesting in people knowing the King of Kings.

Which people are we like, the Scribes, Pharisees, or the lowly shepherds?

Luke 2:  There were shepherds in the fields watching over their flocks by night.  The angel of the Lord showed up in the Heavens above them, doing marvelous things.  The shepherds were so afraid.  The angel said to them fear not for behold I give you tidings of great joy.  This joy was to all the people. This day is born in Bethlehem a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.  Immediately the shepherds left their sheep, and went to worship.  The wolves, lions, bears, and thieves were out there, but they trusted their Savior to take care of them.  He is able to protect us too. (Scripture paraphrased)