Luke records, “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, the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. The angel said to them ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.'”

– Luke 2: 8-20 (excerpts)

Straight after recording the birth of Jesus, Luke introduces us to the shepherds. They are living and working in the fields, vigilant in keeping watch over their flocks. The angel knows where to find them, on their home ground and in their workplace. Yet they are terrified by the angel and the sight of God’s glory. The angel assures them not to be afraid; there is good news in the wings.

The shepherds are of humble circumstances, low in the social and financial pile. As Jews, they are likely to have heard of the Messiah. They may not believe it possible in their lifetime. Perhaps the thought of a new king who would rescue them from their circumstances comes as good news of new possibilities (rather than improbable news). The whole episode is a time, place, and message just for them.

The angel is joined by a heavenly host, praising God and declaring, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favour rests.” Then the angel and heavenly host leave. The shepherds, probably still in shock, talk amongst themselves and decide to “hurry off to find Mary, Joseph and the baby.” We’re not sure what happens to their sheep: perhaps they follow the shepherds (as sheep can do) and meander into the nativity scene in the village of Bethlehem.

What is so special about the angelic song? Its two parts, “Glory to God in the highest heaven” and “peace among his people on earth” go hand in hand. Giving glory to God in the highest heaven expresses itself in working for peace and justice here on earth. What a privilege, what a responsibility to be part of this heavenly song-in-action.

The shepherds’ account shows Jesus’ humble birth. It shows He was welcomed by the humble of heart. Humble circumstances do not equal a humble heart. Nor do lofty circumstances, like those of the later-introduced Magi, equal a lack of humility. In the case of the shepherds, their encounter with the angelic presence and their active response affirm that Jesus seeks those with humble hearts, willing to heed the message of the angel, the chorus of the heavenly host (or the heavenly constellations in the case of the Magi) and make haste to Jesus. The heavenly signs (pointing to Jesus) call for an active response to follow the signs that ultimately lead to Jesus.

What do the shepherds teach us about the heavenly song they hear that night? In this account, the angel sings once and once only; then comes the angelic host and their song. They give glory to God and do it well, compelling the shepherds to go to Jesus. Here, heaven and earth come together.

What do the shepherds teach you about your humility or lack of humility? Are you open to watching and listening for heavenly signs of Jesus? Are you willing to respond to what you see and hear? Having heard the angelic song, what is your song to Jesus?

And how do you see others? Do you see Jesus wanting to draw them to Himself? Are you willing to help others respond to what they see and hear? Are there impediments to others coming to Jesus that you need to remove?

Lord, thank You for the shepherds, for meeting them where they were. Thank You that You meet me where I am, whether at home or work, like the shepherds fully occupied in daily tasks. My heart’s desire is to be humble before You, to listen to You and to sing a song of praise to You. Amen.

Take the time to encourage someone. Remind them of the shepherds. They heard a heavenly song of praise. They obeyed it and journeyed to Bethlehem to meet Jesus.

This Christmas, turn your heart to Jesus, follow the signs to Jesus, worship Jesus in humility, and pursue peace on Earth.