We came across this video a while ago and it sparked a new appreciation and desire to seek joy this Christmas. I hope you'll take a few moments (it's about 25 minutes long) to watch before or after reading this blog because it might spark something in you as well.
I found myself relating to the shepherd in this video in many ways. Right off the bat his physical ailment reminded me of the pain I feel when I see my children struggling physically and those around them just want them to hurry up. As I continued to watch he also reminded me of myself in many ways. I'm sure each of us can watch the story and glean different perspectives. And while this is just a fictional depiction of what it might have been like, it brings to life the realty that the shepherds were real and had real stories that most likely included pain, heartaches and difficulties. We know shepherds were considered the lowest of the low in society and we know the message from the angels was clear. They (and you) matter!
"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger." Luke 2: 8-16
Oh, to picture the joy, the haste, the anticipation that followed hearing that message! My prayer this Christmas is that we experience much joy and peace no matter the trials we face for there is good news. Christ has come to bear all our guilt, shame, sin and heartache. He was the perfect, spotless lamb that died once and for all, but we have more to rejoice over than the shepherds could comprehend on that night. Jesus proved that he is the Messiah and fulfilled many prophesies that were hundreds of years old. And today he is not dead, he conquered death, rose from the grave and is preparing a glorious place for his children. We don't have to provide a spotless lamb, we don't have to make sure we have no blemish. We just need to come like that shepherd, with a desire to know him, and follow him, and when you do it's impossible to not want to share that good news with others. It is the only news that brings true peace and hope through trials, and joy and dancing in both good times and hard times.