Read: Luke 2:8-20
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased! (v. 14)
In the story of Christ’s birth, nearly every major character has an angelic encounter. Zechariah, Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the wise men receive messengers from God both in person and in dreams. It’s almost as if God wanted to make sure each person involved was personally invited into this unfolding story.
To the shepherds, God sent a celebratory host of angels that illuminated the night sky, proclaiming the birth of the Prince of Peace in a lavish, exuberant display that filled their hearts with joy. The beauty of what the shepherds witnessed in the night sky was enough to make them leave their posts, rush to the stable, and worship a newborn baby, and then proclaim to all who would hear the good news of Jesus’s birth.
Perhaps God sent an angelic host to a group of smelly, rough-and-tumble shepherds simply because they were available. As shepherds, their primary role was to remain outdoors with their sheep, watching the sky and their surroundings for signs of danger. Are we not also meant to be alert, watching and waiting for the presence of God in our midst? Those who bear witness to God’s glory are the ones who’ve been watching—straining each of their senses to attune to his presence. Imagine what might happen for those of us who are truly watching, wondering, and waiting—even willing to take the night watch. Who knows what wonders we might behold?
As you pray, thank God for revealing his glory to all who watch and wait upon him.
Katelyn J. Dixon is a contemplative writer, speaker, and poet living in the Seattle area. In her free time, Katelyn enjoys cooking, photography, and exploring the enchanting Pacific Northwest with her husband, Drew, while partnering with him in life and ministry.
