Friends,
As we approach the joyous season of Christmas, our hearts turn to the timeless story of the birth of Jesus Christ. Among the central figures in the narrative are the humble shepherds, whose experience with the divine unfolded on that sacred night. Their story is our story . . .
The Gospel of Luke recounts how the shepherds were keeping watch over their flock by night when an angel of the Lord appeared to them, bringing tidings of great joy. In our United Methodist tradition, humility and service are fundamental values, and the shepherds exemplify these qualities. Shepherds were often considered lowly and marginalized in society, yet they became the chosen witnesses to the miraculous birth of the Savior. This reminds us that God's grace extends to all, regardless of societal status, inviting us to embrace humility and servant-hood in our own lives.
The shepherd’s story is our story because upon hearing the angelic proclamation, the shepherds wasted no time in responding. They hurried to Bethlehem to witness the miracle that had been foretold. In our faith journey, we are called to be responsive to God's call in our lives, just as the shepherds were. Whether it be acts of compassion, justice, or love, our faith calls us to be active participants in God's transformative work in the world. The shepherds' swift response challenges us to listen attentively to God's voice and to act with urgency in fulfilling our divine purpose.
The shepherd’s story is our story because having encountered the Christ child, the shepherds did not keep the news to themselves; instead, they became the first evangelists, spreading the good news of the Savior's birth. We as United Methodists share this commitment to evangelism and spreading the love of Christ. Like the shepherds, we are called to be witnesses to the transformative power of Jesus in our lives and to share this message with the world. The shepherds' bold proclamation inspires us to be courageous in sharing our faith and to embody the teachings of Christ in our interactions with others.
The shepherd’s story is our story, so may we be inspired by the shepherd’s example as we journey through the Christmas season and into the new year, living out our faith with humility, responsiveness to God's call, and a commitment to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world.
The shepherd's story is our story because it reminds us that God often chooses the unexpected to accomplish divine purposes. As we celebrate Christmas, we are encouraged to embrace the unexpected ways in which God works in our lives and in the world around us.
How is the Shepherd’s story like your faith story?
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Owen