Greeting the Messiah

“Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them … do not be afraid, I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:9-10).

A moment like this would have a life-changing impact. The shepherds visit Mary and her child, and everything is as the angel said it would be.

But what happens next might seem a bit confusing. “The shepherds went back to their flocks …” (Luke 2:20).

WOW! These shepherds stand face to face with a messenger from heaven, greet the newborn Messiah – who will be the Savior of the world – and then they… just … go back to the field?

I am thinking that if it were me, I would leave the sheep, abandon all my former responsibilities, and wait for the next great spiritual moment. But that is not how God thinks. An encounter with Him is not intended to rip me away from the life and responsibilities He’s given me; It’s so I can return to them with a new outlook, passion, and purpose.

The shepherds go back to their flocks, but this is how the verse ends:

“… glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen.” 

This Christmas season, I hope God reveals his presence in your life in a profound way. And afterward, when the moment is over, and you return to your field and tend to your flock, you do so with a new sense of excitement, wonder, and gratitude because of what God has revealed to you.

Blessings,

John Frick
Vice President of Development, SAT-7 USA