Luke 2:8-14
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.
Comments
It is not surprising that shepherds out in the fields were terrified when the night sky began to glow brightly and an angel appeared to them. Shepherds were not known for being particularly religious. In fact, the responsibility of caring for their sheep made it virtually impossible for them to attend Temple or participate in Jewish festivals. They couldn’t even observe the Sabbath properly by not working because their sheep needed to be taken care of every day.
Reflections
The shepherds were lowly people chosen by God to join the Holy Family as the Christ Child was born. Do you think of yourself as a lowly person God has chosen to be part of carrying out His plan for the world?
The angel announced peace “to those on whom his favor rests.” In what ways do you think of yourself as someone on whom God’s favor rests?
Prayer
Help me remember, Lord, that being lowly in no way disqualifies me from being chosen by you for a special purpose.
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