It says in Luke 2:8-9, "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." (KJV).
Of all the people on the earth God chose shepherds to be the first to hear the wonderful announcement of Christ's birth.
He could have announced it in a public gathering with important government in attendance. Or He could have summoned Israel on a special event or festival to break the news.
I believe He selected these men watching over sheep because it was a reminder of an other shepherd long ago who became king. Before David took the throne, he guarded his father's sheep (I Samuel 16:11). He was overlooked and despised by his brothers, a cast away to do the most ill fitting job none of them wanted.
And I believe God is still watching over His word to perform it in our lives. As we begin to close out 2016 we can walk into the new year with confidence. God's word does not alter or fail. We are not in plan B or C or even D. No matter the twists or turns our lives take God is sovereign to call us for His kingdom purposes.
You may be a waitress or a police officer or unemployed. Your family may be whole or in shambles. Friends may be many or you are alone. No matter God knows and understands the impoverished and the neglected. That's why those who seem so little and almost invisible have the greater commission. God only speaks to the humble.
So this Christmas remember the Holy Child - His beginning and remember - He promised to return with all of His angels.
You may be the first to hear the trumpet blast!
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