Luke 2:8-18
That dark night the shepherds were guarding their flocks from danger. The night was likely still and quiet—aside from the sounds of sheep. Suddenly, “An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified” (v. 9). Terrified is right. We usually picture a beautiful angel and anticipate joy with the knowledge we have of Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection. The shepherds had none of that.
When we are presented with a word from God, we may be “terrified.” I distinctly remember sharing with my parents my call to ministry. I was unsure and a bit scared. And yet, God called. We have a choice to make in those times: to follow (even if we are afraid) or to stay.
God makes no mistakes when He calls His children. God chose the shepherds—people no one would have considered worthy to share the good news of a king’s birth. And yet, God invited them to see this new king. Despite their initial terror, the shepherds went.
May you go forth wherever God calls you, afraid or not.
Author: Stefanie Hendrickson