The Shepherd’s Encounter with Jesus
As we continue our Encounters with Jesus – Christmas Edition series, this week we turn our hearts to one of the most popular yet profound moments in the Christmas story: the shepherds’ encounter with the newborn Jesus.
Luke tells us that these ordinary workers were going about their ordinary night when heaven suddenly broke in. The angel’s message—“Do not be afraid… a Savior has been born to you”—reminds us that God’s good news is for everyone, not just the powerful or privileged. The shepherds responded with wonder, urgency, and joy. They went “with haste,” found Jesus just as the angel said, and left praising God and telling everyone what they had seen.
Their encounter challenges us in this season: Are our hearts ready for God to interrupt our routines with His presence? Are we willing to seek Jesus with eagerness and share His hope with others?
May we, like the shepherds, be filled with awe as we encounter Jesus anew this Christmas season.
Have a blessed Advent season,
Pastor Patrick