Shepherds Are Special

by R. Darke, Victoria, B.C., Canada | Category: General | Oct 1989

They certainly are with God, for He chose some of His leaders from among those who cared for sheep. Abraham, Moses, David, are probably the most prominent. Abraham became the friend of God; Moses was His personal servant, for He called this man who was very meek, "My servant"; and David was a man after God's heart.

One sometimes wonders why that particular group of night-watching shepherds was chosen at the time of the Lord's birth (Luke 2:8). Were they devout men who, Simeon-like, were looking for the consolation of Israel? Were they shepherds who cared for the flocks of sheep and goats used in Temple offerings? Perhaps they were men who were to recognize the meaning of John the Baptist's proclamation:

"Behold, the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world" (John

1:29).

Shepherds might have been chosen as the first earthly heralds of the Lord's birth because of David, His illustrious ancestor according to the flesh, and His own shepherd character, soon to be revealed.

Because they travelled widely, seeking better water and pasture, shepherds would be ideal messengers. They met many people; conversation, exchange of greetings with friend and stranger would be commonplace. What an ideal opportunity to make known "concerning the saying which was spoken to them about this child" (Luke 2:17). They were men who, for the rest of their days no doubt, glorified God for all the things they had seen and heard (v.20). Yes, shepherds were and are special. They have an important task of caring, feeding, finding pasture, shepherding, praising, glorifying God, and telling others about the Saviour, Christ the Lord (a meaningful title apparently used just the once in Scripture). How wise God was in His choice on that night so long ago!

R. Darke, Victoria, B.C., Canada | Oct 1989
General