Oh Holy Night, A Journey to Bethlehem

“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

Many have asked why the good news of the birth of Jesus was first delivered to the shepherds. Here are three reasons to consider:

God chose to announce the arrival of a King to a group of people who were looked down upon by many. He would be looked down upon by many throughout history.
The shepherds represent all of us. None of us are deserving of the good news of salvation, yet it is offered to each of us.
God choose the shepherds to reveal who the Savior was because He was to be the Great Shepherd. The one who would lay down His life for us (John 10:11), the one who will always leave the ninety-nine to find us when we are lost (Luke 15:1-17) and the Shepherd whose rod and staff comfort us. (Psalm 23)

I am humbled this Christmas again that, like the shepherds of that night, I am considered worthy of the good news.