The first sermon I ever preached in church was on shepherds. It was Christmas time and remember thinking about how they get little attention from most people and there is much we can learn about God and proper response to God from these shepherds of old. Luke 2:16-20 records their role in the nativity story. The occupation of shepherds was a great training ground for some of God’s leaders in the Old Testament. For example, David and Moses were both shepherds before they lead God’s people. Here is the example that I see from the shepherds on that first Christmas:
1. Be Faithful- In Luke 8:2, these shepherds were keeping watch over their flocks by night. We can be easily distracted and tired missing opportunities God has given us. We should remain faithful especially when we are tired.
2. Be Followers- In Luke 2:15, their response to the good news was “Let’s Go See.” The Good news was given to them by the angel and their response was not to forget it and move on, but to follow wherever it leads with urgency.
3. Be Forthtellers- In Luke 2:16-17, the bible tells us that after seeing Jesus, “they reported the message they were told…”. And what is the reaction of the hearers? It is “all who hard it were amazed.” This Christmas bring glory to God by explaining why Christmas is so important for mankind. Explain to all that will listen that Jesus came to earth, lived a perfect life, and died as a perfect sacrifice so that we can have a reconciled relationship with God. I can think of no better give to give for Christmas than the gospel explained clearly.
So in conclusion, let’s all be more like the shepherds, but maybe without the smell of livestock! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
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