The Shepherds & the Angels in the Christmas Story

Shepherds and the Angel – Christmas Story

In Luke 2:8-14, we read the story of the birth of Jesus. It tells us about the humble shepherds who received the joyous news of Jesus’ birth from an angel. Christmas is a miraculous and divine time of year, and this passage tells the reason.

Today, we’re going to take a look at what Luke says about that first Christmas. This is the one about the shepherds and the angels — and their significance. The real Christmas story is about the birth of Jesus. But it is also a story of God’s great love He has for us. He sent His only son to die on the cross so that we might be saved from eternal death. This Christmas, let’s remember the true message of the story, and that God’s love and grace is for everyone.

The Shepherds & the Angels in the Christmas Story – NASB

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.

This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” – Luke 2:8-14 NASB

NOTE: I also listed the New King James version of this passage below as it is more poetic. And, it rings true to those of you who heard it at a younger age..

The Shepherds & the Angel in the Christmas Story – NKJV

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. – Luke 2:8-14 NKJV

Jesus’ Birth = Love for Everyone

The good news about Christ is that He comes to all, including the plain and the ordinary. Even a person like me can receive the same love of Jesus as the richest person on earth.

So, regardless of what you do, or who you are, Jesus is available to you if you come with a humble heart.

Jesus didn’t come to judge people, He came to save them. He offers forgiveness, acceptance, and eternal life to everyone who wants to enter a personal relationship with Him. Jesus extends his invitation to all, regardless of their past mistakes or current circumstances.

With the promise of guidance, comfort, and strength, Jesus walks alongside those who accept Him. It’s a free gift. And It’s available to anyone who sincerely asks.

Are You Qualified to Follow Christ?

If you decide to take this first step, don’t feel that you need extraordinary qualifications. Christ accepts you as you are. With Him, all you need is a desire to accept and a willingness to strive.

When you believe in the Christmas and Easter promise, at least three things will happen ..

~ He will never stop loving you.

~ Once you have Christ in your heart the Holy Spirit guides you in your everyday decisions.

~ You can count on Him whenever the need arises. Or, you can just talk to Christ anytime you want answers to a difficult choice you have to make.

So, drink in the Christmas story and reflect on its meaning. You’ll find Christ there but you will also find God. May your heart be filled with joy and peace this Christmas Day.

Merry Christmas!

– Bob

Christmas Story Contents

If you would like to learn more about the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to go here for more information.

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shepherds and the angel

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