All right now, if we're honest, reading the Bible consistently can be a challenge, but it's never too late to start and we're in this together.

This is the Join the Journey podcast.

Thanks for joining and Merry Christmas.

Today, we're reading Luke 2, 8 through 14.

It's the story of shepherds out in the fields, minding their own business,

when suddenly the night sky lights up and angels deliver the incredible message. So here's the

big question for today. Why did God choose shepherds to be the first to hear this announcement?

And how does this message of peace and joy still speak to us today? We're going

to unpack the cultural and biblical context of this passage, explore what it tells us about Jesus,

and think about how to apply it to our lives. So let's jump in. Here's what Luke 2, 8 through 14 says.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

But the angel said to them, do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all

people. Today, in the town of David, a savior has been

born to you. He is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be assigned to you. You will find a baby

wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. 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 favor rests. So why shepherds? In the first century, shepherds weren't exactly

society's elite. Their job was dirty, and they were often looked down upon. They lived outdoors

for long stretches of time, separated from the rest of the community.

In fact, they were sometimes even seen as unreliable or untrustworthy, which that detail was

interesting to me.

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