December 25th, 2025

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.” 

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” 

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.  ‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬-‭16‬

Carol: Angels We Have Heard on High

The shepherds are not prepared — they are attentive. When heaven speaks, they respond: “Let us go and see.” Purpose is discovered in movement.

They leave their fields and find themselves part of God’s story. Christmas reveals that God calls ordinary people who are willing to respond.

“That there were shepherds, means that no one is to hear the Gospel for himself alone, but everyone is to tell it to others who are not acquainted with it. For he who believes for himself has enough and should endeavor to bring others to such faith and knowledge, so that one may be a shepherd of the other, to wait upon and lead him into the pasture of the Gospel in this world, during the nighttime of this earthly life.” Martin Luther – Sermons for Advent and Christmas Day

Prayer:

God, give me a responsive heart when You invite me to move.