Shepherds Abiding
Living, guarding, being terrified. Like, normal people.
I’ll never get over the fact that they were shepherds. Soon enough, faithful old saints of God at the Temple will see him. Magi will come along (in Matthew, at least). Fishermen and rabbis and tax collectors and centurions and government officials, too.
But first it was shepherds. Third shift shepherds.
Why did they have to be in the story? There didn’t have to be any group of anyone to receive the message that night. But they did. Shepherds taking care of sheep.
What does Christmas Eve do for you? For me, it’s the mystery. The beauty and the mystery. The power of light and the story of a baby.
Initiated by the creator of the universe.
Happy Christmas Eve to you.
Luke 2:7-14
She gave birth to her firstborn child, a son, wrapped him snugly, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the guestroom.
Nearby shepherds were living in the fields, guarding their sheep at night. The Lord’s angel stood before them, the Lord’s glory shone around them, and they were terrified.
The angel said, “Don’t be afraid! Look! I bring good news to you—wonderful, joyous news for all people. Your savior is born today in David’s city. He is Christ the Lord. This is a sign for you: you will find a newborn baby wrapped snugly and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great assembly of the heavenly forces was with the angel praising God. They said, “Glory to God in heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors.”
Micah 5:4-5a
He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. They will dwell secure, because he will surely become great throughout the earth; he will become one of peace.
Prayer1
God,
You have caused this holy night to shine with the brightness of the true Light: Grant that we, who have known the mystery of that Light on earth, may also enjoy him perfectly in heaven; where with you and the Holy Spirit he lives and reigns, one God, in glory everlasting.
Amen.
From the Book of Common Prayer.