Luke 2:10-11

Luke 2:10-11 – But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord.”

Jesus was born alone. Mary and Joseph were far from home, with no family or friends to support them or rejoice with them. They were in Bethlehem and they did not know anybody. Everyone was busy and tired, having traveled many miles to register for the census.

When you have a baby, while it is nice for a little bit of alone time, you really want to share it with others. You want to proclaim it to everyone you know and let them share in your excitement. I know when I had my kids I called people and told them the good news over the phone. Others actually came and visited us in the hospital. There were people around to rejoice with and to brag a little too. Joseph and Mary had no one.

God knew this wasn't right. His Son had just been born and there was no one there to join in the celebration. He had to announce it. Today, we use phone calls, texting or facebook, God used a choir of angels. Just like any proud father wanting to announce the coming of His child. He sent His angels to a nearby field of shepherds, which was fitting, since Jesus would be the Shepherd of His people. God knew these shepherds would rejoice with Him.

Imagine Joseph and Mary when the shepherds showed up. “Who are you?” they probably asked. “Oh, we’re just some local shepherds. We were over on the hillside watching our sheep when angels appeared to tell us of Jesus birth. We just had to come see this miracle for ourselves.” The angels didn't tell them to go to see the baby Jesus; they were just announcing His birth. It was the shepherds who decided to go and visit them in the manger. Now Mary and Joseph had people to share in their joy.