Shepherds??
“Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night.” Luke 2:8
I was impressed to write about the shepherds today. The only problem is I don’t know much about shepherds. So, I asked the LORD, “LORD, why did You send the angels to shepherds as the first people to get the news of our LORD’s birth?” To me they have always seemed like an unlikely group to be chosen to spread the word for such an important event. As I thought about shepherds in general, I considered, “maybe because they are diligent to watch over their sheep or maybe because they were faithful to stay with their flock to keep them all in one place?” However, all of my considerations didn’t answer my question. I thought, “maybe I will do a little research on shepherds so I can begin to understand them more?” Then my next thought was, “no, I will just let God reveal what I need to know.” (That’s what I always depend on) Suddenly, it hit me that Shepherd is another name we call Pastors and Pastors shepherd their “sheep”. Pastors also preach the good news of the gospel.
So, if we look at today’s scripture, that is exactly what the shepherds did. First, they went to the place where Jesus was and met Him, then they made widely known the things that were told them concerning their Savior. Their message caused many to marvel and wonder about the things the shepherds said. It is the same thing that happens today. God anoints Pastors to make widely known the gospel concerning our Savior and that anointing on their words causes all who hear to think about the message and receive it.
God knew exactly what He was doing when He sent the angels to the shepherds. He planned for them to be His ministers of the good news that Messiah had come. Lastly, they rejoiced because of the great news and because they were chosen to spread that news.
Today I want to encourage you this Christmas season to appreciate your Pastor for the anointing and message he has received from God. Send him a card or gift to show your grateful heart for watching over and keeping you as part of the flock and for his diligent and faithful service in our LORD’s work.
Today’s scripture reading: Luke 2:8-20
The Daily Dose 