Why the shepherds?

It is a question that biblical scholars have pondered for ages. The shepherds, keeping watch over their flocks nearby, were God’s chosen first to receive the good news of the birth of Christ. Why? Some have suggested that this was a symbolic act, that the shepherds who tended these sheep near Jerusalem were in the position of selecting the perfect lambs to be offered as an atonement sacrifice at the Temple. They argue it is only fitting that these shepherds be the first to recognize God’s perfect lamb, the Christ, whose sacrifice would redeem humanity.

Others point to the humble position of the shepherds and how it mirrors Jesus’ humble earthly beginning. Jesus was born to a poor teen mother forced to give birth in a stable, then wrapped in rags and laid in a manger. These writers suggest it is clear from the beginning that Jesus came to establish a new world order—the first shall be last, and the last shall be first. In choosing the shepherds, God emphasizes that the gospel message is foremost for those who have been forgotten and marginalized by society.

There may be truth in both interpretations, but I think there is another likely and very simple answer to the question, “Why the shepherds?” I think God chose the shepherds because they would go to see Jesus. Visiting angels aside, would those who were safe and comfortable in their own homes have been as likely to abandon such security in search of a poor newborn lying in a barn in the middle of the night?

I think God chose the shepherds because they were ready and willing to receive the gospel. Those who are most in need of good news are usually the ones most likely to hear it and respond. Those most hungry for hope tend to be the ones with the openness and willingness to receive and share it.

How is your heart this season? Are you hungry for hope? Are you longing for good news? Then keep watch. Be alert for God’s invitation to come and see the Christ child. I believe with all my heart that God has a message of great joy for you and all people.

Gracious God, your world is still in need of peace. Your people are still in need of hope. Lead our hearts faithfully toward the Christ child this season and always, that we may receive the good news with joy and share it generously, far and wide. In His name we pray, amen.

Today’s devotional was written and read by Greta Smith.

Grace for All is a daily devotional podcast produced by the members of the congregation of First United Methodist Church in Maryville, Tennessee. With these devotionals, we want to remind listeners on a daily basis of the love and grace that God extends to all human beings, no matter their location, status, or condition in life.

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First United Methodist Church is a lively, spirit-filled congregation whose goal is to spread the message of love and grace into our community and throughout the world. We are located on the web at https://1stchurch.org/.