Angel Visits the Shepherds – The Christmas Story in Luke

No matter how many times I’ve heard it, I never tire of reading this beautiful part of the Christmas story in Luke. It tells one of the most heartwarming and poetic passages in the entire Bible. And for me, the King James Version (KJV) still carries that timeless charm. The words flow like poetry, making this moment come alive every time we read it.

Angel Visits the Shepherds in Luke 2

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.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

– Luke 2:8-20 (KJV)

Meaning of the Christmas Story

The Christmas story is more than a tradition we revisit each December. In fact, it reminds us of God’s incredible love for us. In sending His only Son, Jesus, God made a way for us to be saved from eternal separation from Him. This is not just a story—it’s the heart of the gospel.

When the Christmas angel appeared to the shepherds, they were ordinary people—just like us. They weren’t royalty. They didn’t have wealth or influence. Yet, they were chosen to hear the good news first. This shows us that Christ’s love is for everyone—no matter who you are or where you come from.

No Special Qualifications Needed

You don’t have to be perfect, important, or “good enough” to receive Jesus. He comes to those who are humble enough to welcome Him. He meets us right where we are—whether in a palace or in a field under the night sky.

If you’ve never read about the wise men who later visited Jesus, you can enjoy the Children’s Christmas Story of the Three Kings here.

The Spirit of Christ as Our Guide

Once you invite Christ into your life, He becomes your constant companion and guide. Need wisdom for a big decision? Struggling with a heavy heart? Or maybe you just want to talk to someone who truly understands? You can always turn to Him.

The Luke Bible lesson is more than history—it’s a living message of hope. Every time we read the part where the angel visits the shepherds, we’re reminded that God is near, and He loves us more than we can imagine.

Living the Message of the Christmas Angel

This season, let’s take the joy and peace of the Christmas story and share it with others. Just as the shepherds spread the news, we can tell our friends, family, and neighbors about the hope we have in Christ.

Most importantly—remember this truth: God will never stop loving you.

If you want to know more about experiencing the love and life-changing grace of Jesus Christ, please read John 3:16

Love in Christ & Merry Christmas!
– Bob

Visit Making Christ Known for more Bible lessons and inspiring devotionals.

Finally, as a special treat let’s listen to Linus from “A Charlie Brown Christmas” recite the story of the coming of Christ.

 

 

 

See original video here.