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

according to Luke 2:8-20.

When the shepherds received the angelic message about the birth of Jesus, Luke records that

they were “terrified” because of the presence of the angel -- and who can blame them? In

today’s passage, we see how the shepherds responded: When the angels had left them and

returned to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go straight to Bethlehem

and see what has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” (Luke 2:15)

The shepherds chose to share this news with their community in Bethlehem – and they chose to

share it immediately! They were given instructions, and they obeyed – and they obeyed

immediately. The shepherds were obedient in their work, and we see this continue as they

sought Jesus.

The shepherds then hurry to visit Mary, Joseph, and the baby in Bethlehem. The gospel writer

puts it this way: They hurried off and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby who was

lying in the manger. After seeing them, they reported the message they were told about

this child. (Luke 2:16-17)

After the shepherds found Mary, Joseph, and the baby, they shared why they came. This clearly

impacted those shepherds as well as the community of Bethlehem: And all who heard it were

amazed at what the shepherds said to them. (Luke 2:18)

In a small community like Bethlehem, it’s no surprise that the shepherds’ message became big

news. Mary and Joseph weren’t expecting the shepherds - the shepherds came seeking Jesus!

Jesus’ ministry was already beginning!

Clearly many miracles were taking place here. But let’s not look for miracles to tell us what to do

for people to be impacted. Everyone in the story - Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds - were

doing what they were asked to do. They were obeying God. And they were blessed because of

it.



In what ways does our obedience need to be more like that of Mary, Joseph, and the

shepherds? What blessings are we missing because we fail to take that next step of obedience?

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:

The mission has a strong ministry of helping the homeless to find their way to sustainable living.  One way they do that is through their “Circles” program. Circles provides mentors who can support people as they do the hard work of climbing out of poverty. Contact the mission by phone or through their website for more information. 859-381-9600 or  https://lexingtonrescue.org/volunteer/