Giving Dignity: Advent Day 8

That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:8–12 NLT)

The work of a shepherd is humble work that includes long hours in isolation and watching over something that will never tell of your care or leadership. In the days leading up to Christ’s birth, shepherds were not typically seen as core cultural voices or influencers. Needless to say, the shepherds the angels told of Christ’s birth were not considered influential or important figures in their day, which makes it all the more poignant that God chose them to be the first people on earth outside of the immediate family to learn of the birth of the Messiah.

Spending time with those of no position or influence is a trend to Jesus’s life that became more readily apparent during His years preaching and healing, but it was on this night, when God granted shepherds the very first audience with the King, that this trend had its start.

This week’s video tells the story of individuals who strive to extend dignity and honor to a group of people who aren’t always treated with such respect. As you watch the video above, ask yourself what is revealed about you based on the people you spend time with. How can you invite people of low reputation into your life to better reflect the Son of God in your life?

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