We’re used to seeing dignified, noble shepherds in manger scenes, Christmas pageants and paintings. Yet when Jesus was born, most people looked down on shepherds. Most priests shunned them because, caring for flocks, they couldn’t carefully observe all the rituals it took to be “holy.” But God loved them, and made these shepherds the first to hear the “wonderful joyous news for all people.”

• Was Jesus born on December 25? Probably not. “Flocks in pasture at night show that this was a warmer season, not winter (when they would graze more in the day)” (The IVP Bible Background Commentary). How can the story of the shepherds watching their flocks outdoors on a warmer night remind you that the good news of Jesus’ birth applies all year, and not just for a few wintry nights?
• In verses 9-10, the shepherds were terrified, and the angel told them, “Don’t be afraid! Look! I bring good news to you.” Have you ever felt fear when you faced something unexpected or unexplainable? In what parts of your life do you need to hear anew the wonderful, joyous news of Jesus, and to take in the message “Don’t be afraid”?