“Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.” (Luke 2:20, NKJV)

The night began like any other. It is just like God to do the supernatural in everyday, natural things, right?! Shepherds were out in the fields, tending sheep under a star-lit sky. Humble and often overlooked men became the first to hear the announcement of Jesus’ birth!

Terrified and awestruck, they saw the glory of the Lord light up the night as an angel declared, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to ALL people” (Luke 2:10). The Savior had come, not to a palace, but to a humble manger.

Without hesitation, the shepherds left their sheep and went to Bethlehem. They found Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus just as the angel said. Their encounter with the newborn King transformed them. Overflowing with joy, they glorified God and shared the good news with everyone they met.

The shepherds remind us that this GOOD NEWS is for ALL people, regardless of status or background. Their joy did not come from circumstances but from the truth that the Savior of the world had come.

This Christmas, let the shepherds’ story challenge us! Do we eagerly seek Jesus, or do we hesitate? Does His presence fill us with joy? Are we intentionally sharing that joy with others? May we, like the shepherds, live with hearts overflowing, glorifying God, and spreading the light and hope of Jesus wherever we go.