“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today, in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” –Luke 2:10-11
There they were, in the darkest of nights, keeping watch over their flocks. They had no idea that the God of the Universe had His eye on them. Who would? They were shepherds. Most the younger sons of peasant farmers, they had no land to call their own. No family. They lived a life separate from society; a life focused on the flock in their care. But God knew everything about those shepherds – from each hair atop their heads, to the grime on the bottom of their feet. He knew each name, each face, each scent. He knew from whence they came and the direction they were heading; He knew their hopes, disappointments, worries, and regrets. He knew they needed saving. He knows the same of us. He could have rescued us from afar. Instead he sent His most precious possession to the muck and mire of our lives – tangible proof that He’s in our corner. We turn our backs on Him; he continues to pursue us. We work ourselves into a wretched state; He sends salvation. And He’s never closer than in the darkness of night; when all seems lost, that’s when His light shines brightest. If we but take our eyes off our circumstances and look up, we’ll find the message is the same: Do not fear; I bring you good news of GREAT joy…