When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. All who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished, but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often. The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them. Luke 2:15-20 NLT
My husband Charlie led what seemed to be a bazillion wonderful family and friend caravans to vacations, conferences, and adventures. Along with the prayer for God’s presence and blessing when we left came the expected jovial admonition: “Now remember – we are traveling together. Don’t get far ahead or far behind. Follow close.” That was the formula for fun at the start of the trip and a lack of frustration during it. That’s true for an intimate closeness with God as well.
Those who enjoy a wonderful close journey with God are ones who follow closely. Shepherds would not normally be noted by typical “religious” people for closeness to God. In the days of the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob) shepherding was a noble profession. By the time of David, it was distasteful enough that it was given to hired hands or the youngest in the family. In the time when Christ was born, shepherds were at the bottom of the social ladder. Mothers and fathers did not want their daughters marrying smelly, ceremonially unclean shepherds. Yet God drew close to them. He sent the host of angels to the most unlikely recipients, men not close to the crowds of people, but spending long days and nights in the glory of the world He created. They announced the birth of the long-awaited Messiah, and these men, condescended to by everyone, instantly believed the angels and took off to the village stable where the angels said they would find the Christ-child. They left their flocks on the hillside without a thought about predators or thieves. God had spoken to them!
They were overwhelmed with wonder and joy at what they had seen! They told everyone they saw, then and in the following days, what they had seen and what the angels had told them about the baby – He was the One who had come to save the world and redeem everyone from their sins! They were so full of joy and excitement; their witness was credible. Everyone was astonished. God had come near. The shepherds had heard and followed. There was joy to the world, just as the angel said.
- God is close to those who follow closely. If you feel distant this Christmas, look back and consider, is there anything God has spoken that I have hesitated to follow? If so, imitate the shepherds. Throw off your inhibitions and do what God has said. Look for joy to come to your world!