JANUARY 8, Luke 2:8-14 

The same night that Jesus was born, was also the night that the angel appeared to the shepherds. The shepherds were sitting in the field, keeping watch over their flock of sheep. Before the angel appeared, it was probably another usual night. They could have been admiring the fantastic array of stars in the night sky, or perhaps exchanging stories or accounts of how they fought against predators which wanted to attack their flock.

Suddenly an angel appeared,shining with a bright light. The shepherds were afraid, but the angel brought them wonderful news from Heaven, “Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11).

This was immediately followed by a great company of angels praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men”(Luke 2:14). Then the angels were gone and the shepherds decided to go to Bethlehem to visit and worship Jesus.

There is a wonderful repetition of the idea of “great”in these few verses. One can see the progression from great fear (verse 9) to great joy (verse 10) to great host of angels (verse 13) singing a great song of praise to God (verse 14). What great news it is to have the King of kings born to man so that man may live forever more!

Thought: What a wonderful account that reminds us of that blessed Christmas.

Prayer: Father in Heaven, thank You for bringing the good news of Jesus’ birth. May I learn to appreciate His birth and to understand that without the birth of Jesus, I would not have experienced spiritual birth myself. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.