An Angel Of The Lord Stood Before Them

In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see – I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you; you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!”

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another. “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

Luke 2:8-20

The shepherds were doing their jobs. Zacharias was doing his job. They did not expect to receive a message from God.

Jesus does not come to us when we are expecting Him to do so. He comes when we least expect Him to, and mostly He comes to us in situations that do not make sense to us. The situations almost seem illogical to us. The only way we can keep true to God is by being ready for the surprise visit from the Lord. He may have a job for us on this earth, or He may be calling us to heaven, but the fact is, He will call us.

On this day, the Lord may have a word of encouragement, guidance, or instruction for us, if we are listening and ready to obey.

God speaks to those who are quiet before Him.

Our Daily Bread – March 24, 2009