Luke 2:8-11
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.
I noticed one word a few weeks ago when reading this chapter..the word NIGHT. These shepherds were faithful in the field God placed them in even in the night, even when everyone else was asleep in bed. They cared about the things God had put them over. They were ready to protect and fight for their field and their flock even though it was dark out.
•Shepherds abiding:
These were simple people who cared for the sheep. That word Abiding means: dwelling, remaining, continuing, enduring, awaiting.
•In the field: They were {abiding} right where they were suppose to be. Any other field they would've missed the Angels, the glory and the good news!
•Keeping watch over THEIR flock:
Keeping: means guarding, or protecting.
Watch: to look with attentiveness or steadiness; To keep guard.
These weren't just any sheep, these were sheep that would be used for the temple sacrifices. I learned Sunday morning that if a sheep had just 3 hairs out of place he was not longer considered "without spot". These shepherd had to keep very close attention on each sheep! God has given us all some things to keep watch over. The enemy loves to come in the dark. It's only human to get tired while working in the field especially when it's dark! In the darkness the sheep had to be watched and protected even more closely from the enemy.
•By night: I've never worked 3rd shift but I know it would be tough! 1st shift is hard enough for me lol. These shepherds weren't envious of those who were getting rest. They weren't jealous of those who had it easy. I'm sure there were times they wish they had what those resting had. Nonetheless they persevered and endured in the night. Paul and Silas sang in the (mid)night hour while in shackles..God did a miracle for them and through them because of their faith. He freed them and saved the jailer and his family. God is doing things even in the night!
•There was a reward..Only these shepherds got to hear the great news and only these shepherds had the amazing privilege to meet sweet baby Jesus before anyone else! What if they had slacked up and fallen asleep or gave up and went home?
Sometimes the place God puts us in might seem dark, the night long, and unrewarding but keep abiding in the field! I sure don't want to miss what God will show me in the night!
On this "Night of all nights" as preacher Frankie called it Sunday morning the Angels showed up in the field with great news! They came only to them to tell them Jesus, our Savior had been born. Where once was darkness now the brightness shone all around.
Glory fell, joy surrounded them and the shepherds were forever changed this beautiful night. It started like all the rest but ended unforgettable. Keep abiding in the field, God sees right where you are. He sees your faithfulness when no one else is watching. Keep serving in the night!
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