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"In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock at night." -- Luke 2:8 

Two aspects of the Christmas story are striking me this year.

First, this whole amazing, world-changing event happened at night. The shepherds were watching "over their flock at night." That's when the angel came. And the multitude of angels appeared. And the Savior was born. At night.

Maybe you're in a night season. God wants to visit you, even in your darkest night. Are you open and ready to "receive the King"?

Second, the angels did not appear to Mary and Joseph! In fact, nothing "miraculous" happened to them on the night the Savior was born. It was an ordinary night full of tension and discomfort.

Yes, they had been visited by angels months ago with a story and a plan that was beyond human comprehension. But on that night, the world probably felt very difficult. After a long journey, there was no room in the house for them. So they settled in where the animals were kept. A lowly manger. And the Baby was born.

Then...

The shepherds came running from the fields with this amazing report. They had been visited by angels! God's plan of salvation was now confirmed by another witness.

Perhaps you need some "shepherds" to show up with a good report this Christmas. Or perhaps you are the shepherd with a good report for a friend or family member.

Be blessed this Christmas, and be a blessing.

Steve Elliott, Grassfire

P.S. I wrote a song based on this theme called "Hope In The Night." Enjoy!