“And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear.” (Luke 2:8-9 ESV)
The shepherds were out in the field that night, taking care of their sheep. They were protecting them from predators—lions, bears, wolves. If it was lambing season, they might have been helping the ewes in labor. Protection and caregiving was their job.
Maybe that’s the reason why God chose them, of all people, to be the first to hear the wonderful news of Jesus’ birth. “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy,” says the angel. “Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10b-11 ESV).
Who is this Savior, Christ the Lord? He is your Caregiver, who watches over you and helps when you suffer. He is your own Shepherd—the One who will protect you from the powers of evil. He is Jesus, who will lay down His life to make you God’s children—and rise from the dead, so that you can live forever.
What a reason to celebrate!
Prayer: Dear Lord, You are my good Shepherd. Keep me with You always. Amen.
Advent Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.
Used by permission from International Lutheran Laymen’s League, all rights reserved
Published December 26, 2021
Reflection Questions:
* When have you served as a caregiver or protector?
* When is one specific time when somebody else protected or cared for you?
* Tell about a time when Jesus acted as a good Shepherd to you.
