Have You Ever Wondered, “Why Shepherds?”
Why did God choose shepherds?
What’s the role of shepherds in the Christmas narrative? Out of all the people in the First Century, why were people who cared for sheep the ones chosen to witness the birth of the Messiah?
Today, we’ll find answers in an ancient, potentially unlikely source. We’ll explore the timeless wisdom found in Psalm 23, written by the shepherd David. From that text, we’ll widen our focus to discover the peace offered by our Good Shepherd, Jesus.
The Shepherds Significance
Shepherds in the First Century were often considered a lowly and outcast group. However, God intentionally chose them to receive the angelic proclamation of Jesus’ birth. This choice symbolized the universal accessibility of Christ’s message – that the Gospel is for everyone, regardless of social standing.
The Divine Revelation
By choosing shepherds, God emphasized a deeper revelation that the ordinary and overlooked, although ignored by human eyes, have not escaped God’s gaze. By sending an angel to shepherds, we understand that God sees those who are often unseen.
Moreover, God is able and willing to extend His grace to anyone, even those who may feel marginalized or forgotten. Through the inclusion of shepherds, the birth of Jesus became a beacon of hope, accessible to every heart yearning for significance.
The Bigger Picture
The choice of shepherds also played a role in the greater narrative, connecting back to the shepherding theme found throughout Scripture. There are numerous historical markers and prophetic metaphors that directly or indirectly point toward the coming Messiah.
In Psalm 23, although written to and about his Lord (God), we, living in a more fulfilled time, recognize that our Lord, Jesus, fills these characteristics in and for us. Psalm 23 became a very well-known psalm throughout history, leading up to today.
When we think of the shepherds outside of Bethlehem on the night, perhaps they recited or sang this psalm as they watched their sheep. Maybe they thought back to that psalm as they stood before the newborn Savior.
Our Good Shepherd
Fast-forward to the middle of Jesus’ ministry on earth, and he claimed that He was and is, in fact, our shepherd.
“I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep.”
John 10:14-15 (ESV)
If Jesus’ claim is true, how does this change how we read Psalm 23? All of a sudden we read David’s poetry with a new understanding, and a greater capacity to obtain the peace of Christ; the Good Shepherd.
1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Psalms 23:1-3
Psalm 23:1-3 (ESV)
With those first three verses in mind, consider how their outflow (centre on Jesus) impacts our lives and increases our ability to find rest in this restless world.
- Rest and Nourishment: The Good Shepherd provides rest and nourishment, leading us to green pastures and still waters. This symbolizes a place of abundance and provision where we find spiritual sustenance, which outflows into the mental and emotional.
- Guidance and Safety: The experienced shepherd guides the flock to still waters, signifying the shepherd’s role in leading us to a place of peace and safety. We need times of spiritual refreshment and tranquillity under the watchful care of the Good Shepherd.
- Presence and Assurance: The presence of the Good Shepherd brings peaceful assurance and contentment. Just as sheep rest in the shepherd’s presence, we find calm and security in Jesus, allowing us to navigate life with trust.
- Healing and Restoration: In moments of injury or weariness, the shepherd tends to the flock, providing care and healing. Jesus, as our Shepherd, brings healing and restoration to our souls, emphasizing His deep desire for our spiritual well-being.
- Righteousness: The Good Shepherd guides us along right (or righteous) paths, reflecting God’s character and faithfulness. Only through Jesus can we find righteousness, aligning ourselves with God’s standing and ultimately experiencing His peace.
Do you have peace?
Consider your life. Are you at peace and rest? If not, which areas need to be given over to our Good Shepherd’s care? Where do you need guidance, nourishment and healing? Will you let Him restore your soul?
Embrace the transformative power of the Good Shepherd’s care this Christmas. Actively seek His peace through prayer and reflection. Foster discussions in your faith community, focused on how our Saviour, Jesus, has brought you restoration and righteousness.
May this season deepen your connection with the Good Shepherd, guiding you into a life of abundant peace in this life and eternal peace in the next.
Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts
- What does the choice of shepherds to witness Jesus’ birth convey to you?
- How does the understanding of Jesus as your Good Shepherd change your perspective on Psalm 23?
- Reflecting on the Good Shepherd’s care, where in your life should you be seeking His peace and restoration?
