That night, as the people slept, a small group of shepherds kept watch outside in the open field open field, tending their flock of sheep. A shepherd in the society of that time did not have the same rights as the rest of the people. He was despised, considered a robber and a cheat.

Suddenly, in the middle of the first Christmas night, an angel appeared to the shepherds and said:

“But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.“

Luke 2:10-11

The Jews at that time were expecting the Messiah, a strong leader who would lead the Israelite people from the oppression of the Roman Empire. The fact that not the scholars and powerful were informed first about the good news of Jesus’ birth, but the poor shepherds in the field, is scandalous.

God chose the outcasts and the needy to be the first to hear the good news. The good news is for everyone, regardless of social status and personal status and personal guilt. There is no person in any age to whom the good news of Christmas would not apply.

What does the good news trigger in you?

Bible text: Luke 2:8-12