Last year, my wife and I discovered a nativity scene at the end of a driveway labeled "free". As we brought it home and set it up, making a mess of the loose straw, I found myself drawn to the shepherd figurines.  They stood there, frozen in time, their faces a mix of awe and joy. I'd seen this scene countless times before, but in that moment, what struck me was how ordinary they were. Just like you and me, these shepherds were probably caught up in their routines, maybe tired, maybe stressed about their own daily concerns - and yet, they were suddenly interrupted by something extraordinary.  

In the whirlwind of the Christmas season, it's easy to overlook a profound aspect of the Christmas story: God's choice of audience for the grand announcement of Christ's birth. He didn't send His angels to the palaces of kings or the temples of priests. Instead, He chose shepherds - ordinary, often overlooked members of society - to be the first to hear the good news.  

If we’re honest, there are times we all feel ordinary and overlooked. But the story of the shepherds reminds us that God doesn't require us to be “something-special”, whatever that means, to be part of His plan. He meets us where we are, in the midst of our everyday lives.  Imagine being one of those shepherds. You're going about your nightly routine, probably fighting off sleep, when suddenly the sky explodes with light and an angel appears. Luke tells us they were terrified, and who wouldn't be? 

But then comes the message: "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people."  This wasn't just any news - it was news of joy, of hope, of salvation. And it wasn't for a select few, but for all people. The long-awaited Messiah had come, not as a conquering king, but as a vulnerable baby in a manger.  The shepherds' response is inspiring. They didn't hesitate or make excuses. They went "with haste" to see this miracle for themselves. Their ordinary night became extraordinary, and they became the first people to hear and spread the word about this good news of great joy.  

As we approach Christmas, let's remember that God often works in unexpected ways through unexpected people. He values the humble and exalts the lowly. No matter who we are or what our circumstances might be, we too can be bearers of the good news.  This Christmas, may we have the courage to be like those shepherds - ready to receive God's message, quick to respond, and eager to share the joy of Christ with others.