This week we are looking at the shepherd’s response to the news of the birth of Jesus,

according to Luke 2:8-20.

In today’s verse (Luke 2:8), we see that the shepherds are at work on an ordinary night in

Bethlehem: In the same region, shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping

watch at night over their flock.

Bethlehem was a small town of fewer than 1000 people. There were likely fewer sheep. The

sheep would have been kept outside the small town, and that’s where the shepherds spent their

time caring for them. It had to be a lonely and boring job at times. (Remember the term

“counting sheep?”) There would have been nothing going on, and they would not have

expected anything about that to change.

Most of us never expect to have something special happen as we’re just doing our “normal” job

– that’s what we’re called to do. Some of our jobs may get more attention than others, but

they’re all important to God.

In this case, the shepherds were taking care of the animals that were providing food, warmth,

and sacrifices for the community. The sheep needed to be protected, and that’s what the

shepherds did – sometimes going to great lengths to provide that protection.

God certainly thought highly of the task of shepherding. Many times in God’s Word, we find the

analogy of God as a shepherd and us as His sheep. Here are a few examples:

The Lord is my shepherd; I have what I need. (Psalm 23:1)

I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and my own know me. (John 10:14)

He protects his flock like a shepherd; he gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them

in the fold of his garment. He gently leads those that are nursing. (Isaiah 40:11)

Since God thought highly of the shepherds who served well in their normal shepherding tasks, it

makes sense that He would bring them the important message of the birth of Jesus.

How can we be an example to others by serving well in our normal tasks -- and perhaps

anticipating a special message from God in the midst of our ordinary days?

By Jason Grace

Jason is a software engineering manager. He and his wife, Karen, have two children and have

been active members at Immanuel for over 22 years. His service includes roles in the deacon

ministry, children's ministry, technical team, financial coaching, and leading Bible studies. He

loves traveling with his wife and family throughout the US.

Your Daily Missions Moment:

This week we are highlighting one of our Partners: Lexington Rescue Mission.

As you consider volunteering with them, it might be helpful to go down to their facility to take a tour. They are located at 535 W. Second St.  You can call them at 859-381-9600 or go to their website at lexingtonrescue.org