Appearance With Purpose

Luke 2:8-14

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, "Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. -KJV

Imagine you are resting on a grassy hill surrounded by sheep, bleating for your attention. You raise up to check on your charges. Without warning, an angel appears. Your heart races, you tremble and fall back to the ground. You look around at your buddies, their mouths are hanging open, their staffs dropped with a thud. But the angel isn't bothered by your awe. He's made an appearance with a purpose. His announcement will change the world. "No need to fear. I've got great news for you. Jesus has been born. He's in a manger just over the ridge. Go meet the Messiah."

You stand in reverence and nod at the angel. About the time you try to wrap your head around the glory of Jesus birth, a choir of angels burst into song.  "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

You clap your hands together in praise, pick up your staff and head to see the King. Oh what a glorious night!

Angels visited shepherds, every day workers who smelled like animals, and announced the birth of Jesus. What a privilege for the caretakers of sheep to be the first to kneel before the one who would change the world. 

We may not be shepherds on a hill, but we are called to kneel before Jesus. Take time to praise the one who came to earth as a babe, then gave his life for our sins. He is the King of grace and hope.

Oh What a Glorious Night-Sidewalk Prophets