Luke 2:15-20 - David Aird
In our reading yesterday we heard of some surprising, dramatic and confusing news.
When we encounter news that, to put it mildly, is out-with our experience and knowledge, we are stunned. It is something new and we need time to process the information which has been received. Sometimes the news is good and sometimes not so good.
We live in an age that is filled with images and clips that seem impossible. Many are created with the aid of digital technology and are not all they claim to be. These are part of our daily life often making us sceptical about what is true and what is untrue.
Today’s reading shows us the importance of real-life engagement. The shepherds were doing what they had done for hundreds if not thousands of nights before. They had the safety of their sheep and their own livelihood as a priority. Important as that was, these men were not highly regarded in society. When the dramatic events unfolded before their eyes it was a group experience. Their immediate reaction was not to ignore it but take immediate action after discussion.
Today the exact location is debated but their actions were more important than the site. The message was clear, and they acted, deciding to see what had happened in Bethlehem. We read “they hurried off”. What they had seen and heard was important and they quickly headed to the City of David to find Mary, Joseph and the baby. When they had seen Him, they spread the word to those who would listen. This caused amazement to those who heard it but Mary “pondered them all in her heart”. These last few months had been dramatic for the family and now angels and shepherds!!
What a story to ponder and share! In 2022 there are many important, exciting, and sometimes frightening stories that break into our lives but none more important than sharing the shepherds message.
Is that our priority today? We now have the benefit of more than 2000 years as a backdrop, and we know that the church has grown even in parts of the world where the scriptures have been banned. The Bible is clear, the decisions by the shepherds changed their lives and millions of others since then. Why would we not want to be part of the ongoing story of Good News.
What can we do today with the message we have freely received?
