Suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army praising God, and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:13-14 WEB
The first part of this chapter in Luke’s gospel account is often read around Christmas time. Luke describes the circumstances surrounding the birth of Christ sharing the story of Joseph and Mary traveling to Bethlehem for a census of the entire Roman Empire ordered by Caesar Augustus.
After Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem, an angel appeared to shepherds while they watched their flocks that night. To them, the angel proclaimed the good news of the birth of our Savior. Fittingly, Jesus’ birth occurred in the ancestral town of David who in his youth watched over his father’s flock of sheep.
In addition to David, Moses, who led the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt, was also a shepherd. The Lord himself is our shepherd. There is biblical significance to the role of a shepherd. Glory to God, they provide direction, safety, and sustenance for the flock they tend. David is famous for protecting his father’s herd, killing a lion and a bear, sacrificing his own safety in exchange for the safety of his father’s sheep. Shepherds leave the comfort and security of their homes to care for their flock in the animal’s natural and often dangerous environment.
The Good Shepherd
As the good shepherd, Jesus left his heavenly home to live among people. Like a shepherd, he guided, protected, and provided for his followers. Christ lived and died for his flock as he says in John 10:11, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. WEB” He gave his life to protect us from the ravenous enemy of man, to save us from sin and death.
Brave, humble, devoted, and illustrative of the Messiah, it is no wonder God chose shepherds to receive the announcement of Christ’s birth. It pleased the Lord that these modest men hear a multitude of angels singing “glory to God,” announcing the peace that Christ brings to those who believe.
As the good shepherd, Jesus, later said in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, I give to you. Don’t let your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful. WEB” Though there are dangers in the world, believers rest assured in our Savior who protects us and provides for our needs. Glory to God!
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the guidance of your holy word. Give me wisdom and understanding to live a life that serves your purpose. Increase my responsibility and help me to be more like you. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Born Under the Law
