Daily Thought for: 9th September
THE SHEPHERDS OF BETHLEHEM
Luke 2. 8-20
There is today a plaque at some caves in the fields near Bethlehem which reads, ‘The revelation of God’s great condescension was first given to shepherds, poorest of sinners. Still God’s word is true that He will behold those who are of a contrite heart, and will dwell with them’. How true this is.
Of course the true Shepherd, the Shepherd of Israel, was in the manger, but these men were privileged to be directed to that manger, to be the first to see the infant Messiah. It is likely that they were indeed poor men. It was a humble occupation. But they were fulfilling their lowly task diligently, as indeed their great King David had done in those same fields so long ago. Here, too, Ruth had met Boaz and had been brought into the lineage of the Christ, the Messiah, now born this night in Bethlehem.
They saw the glory of the Lord. Now they must see the Lord of glory. The birth of the Saviour, Christ the Lord, was good tidings indeed, and great joy. It was glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, as the angel said. They were immediately obedient and made their way into the town. How did they find the place? Did a lighted lantern swing in the entrance to that out-building while Bethlehem slept? Somehow they found the hallowed place. They found the Babe, wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger, as the heavenly messengers had said. It was the sign that this was He whom they sought. Did they stand in silent wonder at that manger bed of the Christ Child? Soon they were witnessing to what they had seen and heard, and they praised and glorified God.
So may we emulate the ministry of these shepherds of Bethlehem. They watched over the flock in the night hours. They responded at once to heaven’s directions. Having seen the Christ they spoke to others about Him, and spoke to God about Him too.
Only Luke tells us the story of these shepherds, but their memory has been enshrined in the holy records forever. Many since then have laboured spiritually in a diligent shepherd ministry. Many have, in this dark night, witnessed faithfully for God. One day the Chief Shepherd will appear and will suitably reward those who have so served Him.
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Subject: Daily thoughts for 9th September 2012 
Sat Sep 08, 2012 10:36 pm