Today's Bible Reading
Luke 2:13-14 – “Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests.”
The region surrounding Bethlehem has long been associated with shepherding since the earliest days of recorded history. It was there that David guarded the flocks of his father, Jesse. Bethlehem was a place of pasture, and, therefore, appropriate for grazing flocks.
God was pleased to choose and call the shepherds, and reveal His secrets to the lowly as He hides them from the wise and prudent.
But it is striking to note that these very people who participated in birthing and tending the sheep for use in temple offerings were considered spiritual outcasts. Why? Because they came in contact with animal blood and dead lambs, and were considered ceremonially unclean.
So ostracised from the very religious system they helped to fuel, the shepherds were required to look elsewhere for hope. That night, they found it in the angel’s message as God chose to reveal His message of hope to them first. It restored their self-worth and dignity, proof that they were not cast out or forgotten by Him.
God was pleased to choose and call the shepherds, and reveal His secrets to the lowly as He hides them from the wise and prudent. This was a precursor of what the kingdom of Christ would be, and by, and to whom, the Gospel would be preached.
Like the shepherds, sometimes we may feel like outcasts in this world. But Jesus’s birth changed everything, and we can now live a life filled with purpose and hope in an eternal life.
Upon reflecting on the windows of our souls, what is your innermost prayer communion with God? You do not need to walk alone. Submit your prayer request and our team will uphold you in prayer.
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