Imagine being a shepherd that first Christmas. Imagine going about your usual nightly routine--all the creature things one does to care for one's self and one's animals. Suddenly, one of God's angels stands on your hillside and the blaze of God's glory fills all the air around you and there is nowhere for a crumb of soul to hide. The glory of God! His power and perfection flow from infinity to infinity and every atom of your being feels them as they sear through the smudge that is you. And you lied just this morning. You wouldn't share your lunch. You've lost count of how often your sheep steal mouthfuls of farmers' crops in passing--you can't watch them all the time. Perfection is impossible. But in this moment you know--that is no excuse. You are terrified.
And the angel speaks: "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." *
And you go and see. And it is so. It is true.
*Luke 2:11-12 NIV
Wow. What good news. It's easy to forget how good.
ReplyDeleteI never thought of it that way! I think I understand now why the shepherds were so afraid. Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteElizabeth! Great to "see" you :O)
ReplyDeletekattyrae, I hadn't thought of it that way before, either, until I read the story again this Christmas. And then I realized that it must have been really scary to experience the glory of God without knowing that Jesus covered you with His righteousness.
ReplyDeleteLovely, Elena!
ReplyDeleteHaving read more of your story, rereading some of thes posts mean so much more to me. I'm glad for the journey you have been on these blogging years.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your thoughtful reading and encouraging words!
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