Characters of the Christmas Story

As we count down the upcoming weeks leading to our Savior's birthday, I wanted to focus on each of those involved in the Christmas story. In keeping with Pastor Ken's sermons on the manger, I hope to give you a glimpse into the hearts and minds of those characters. I pray that you will love Jesus even more this holiday season, as you read His wonderful story.

The Shepherds

In the days of Old, it was customary for the youngest son in the family to become the official family shepherd. As a son grew up, he took on more of the family responsibilities and passed the shepherding duties to the youngest brother.

In the Father God's wonderful, perfect way, He planned all along for these young sons to be the very first ones to receive the news. He chose these tender-hearted, humble caretakers to have the honor of being the first ones to bow down at the tiny feet of the Newborn King. And He appointed these humble hearts to be His messengers, spreading the word of what they had seen and heard.

On that wondrous evening, the shepherds out in the fields were old enough to brave the dark night. Yet when the Angel of the Lord suddenly appeared, the shepherds were terrified. The magnificent glory of the Lord God shone around the fear-stricken shepherds. As they shielded their faces, they heard the mighty voice of the angel reassuring them not to be afraid. It was as if the light of God's glory penetrated their very souls, for their fear was exchanged for wonder and awe. They could scarcely take it in, when their eyes and ears beheld the wonder of a great company of holy angels, praising God for the birth of Christ Jesus.

As it is written in Luke 2:16, with hearts racing, these young chosen shepherds hurried off and found Mary and Joseph and the baby, who was lying in the manger. And when they reached the Anointed One of whom the angels spoke, they worshiped and praised Him. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they indeed saw the face of God.

Returning to their flocks, these blessed servants spread the word of the wonders they had heard and seen. Their hearts were filled, and they continued to glorify and praise the name of Christ the Lord.

         Alison