Our scripture this morning is Luke 2:9-11 (RSV).
And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, “Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people; for to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
I don’t think I’m alone in pondering “how would I have reacted if I had been with the shepherds that night?” I ask this about many scripture lessons – Peter, John and James seeing Christ in all His glory (Matthew 17:1-6), the disciples seeing the risen Christ (Luke 24:36-53) or Paul’s encounter with Jesus on the Damascus Road (Acts 9:1-19).
We need to remember that the miracle here is not in the appearance but in the message, God continually reaching out for us. Peter, John and James heard God tell them Jesus was His Son. The gathered disciples heard Jesus say they were His witnesses. Paul heard Jesus ask “why are you persecuting me?” In each case, while the message was personal, it was intended for all persons everywhere.
In this passage the angel says “for to you”, individually and personally, but also says “to all the people” – everyone, everywhere, for all time. Jesus came for anyone who repents and accepts Him as their Savior, and no matter how we receive it, this message is the most important thing we will ever hear.
Loving Lord, we are amazed at what You have done for us and what You call us to do in Your kingdom. Bless us to bring the Good News to the world. Amen.
