
”8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a [bmanger.” ”
Luke 2:8-12
In recent weeks, sightings of mysterious lights in the skies above America have captured the imagination of many. People have reported seeing orbs, drones, and other inexplicable phenomena that spark conversations about the unknown. These lights have caused wonder, curiosity, and even fear in some. Today, as we approach Christmas, I want to draw a parallel between these modern skyward mysteries and the celestial event described in Luke 2…
On a quiet night over two millennia ago, shepherds gazing at the sky witnessed something far more extraordinary—the glory of the Lord and the announcement of the Savior’s birth. Let us explore the true meaning of Christmas through the lens of wonder, revelation, and joy.
Wonder in the Sky
The shepherds in Luke 2 were simple people going about their nightly routines, much like those who have recently reported seeing orbs and drones. They were not expecting a divine encounter. When the angel of the Lord appeared, the sky transformed into a display of God’s glory, and their ordinary night turned extraordinary.
Today, as we look to the skies and ponder the mysteries of the universe, we are reminded that God often uses wonder to capture our attention. Whether it is through the beauty of a starlit sky, the intricate patterns of nature, or even modern technological marvels, these moments of awe invite us to look beyond ourselves and consider the Creator.
This Christmas, let us recapture the wonder of that holy night and remember that God’s message is often delivered in unexpected ways.
Revelation: The Good News for All People
The angel’s message to the shepherds was clear: “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.” This proclamation is the heart of Christmas. It is the announcement that God has stepped into human history to bring salvation to the world. The Savior’s birth in Bethlehem was not just for the shepherds or the people of Israel—it was for all humanity.
When we hear about unexplained phenomena in the sky, our minds often turn to questions of meaning and purpose. What are these lights? What do they signify? While we may not have answers to every question, the message of Christmas provides clarity amidst uncertainty. The good news of Jesus Christ is the ultimate revelation—a message of hope, peace, and love that transcends time and place.
Just as the angel’s announcement was a revelation to the shepherds, it remains a revelation for us today. The true meaning of Christmas is found not in mysteries we cannot explain but in the mystery revealed: that God loved the world so much He gave His only Son so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16).
Joy in the Midst of Fear
The shepherds’ initial reaction to the angel was fear. The glory of the Lord was overwhelming, and they did not understand what was happening. Similarly, reports of orbs and drones often evoke fear and speculation. In a world filled with uncertainties, it is easy to feel unsettled by what we do not understand.
But the angel’s first words to the shepherds were, “Do not be afraid.” This command is repeated throughout Scripture whenever God’s presence is revealed. Fear is replaced with joy when we understand that God’s intentions are for our good. The birth of Jesus is the ultimate reason for joy because it signifies God’s commitment to redeem and restore His creation.
This Christmas, let us not allow fear—whether from the unknown, the state of the world, or personal struggles—to overshadow the joy that Christ’s birth brings. Instead, let us cling to the promise of Emmanuel, “God with us,” and celebrate the peace and hope He offers.
A Call to Share the Good News
After the angel’s announcement, the shepherds did not stay in the fields. They went to Bethlehem to see the Savior and then shared the good news with others. Their encounter with the divine compelled them to become messengers of hope.
As we reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, we are called to do the same. The message of Jesus’ birth is not one to keep to ourselves. In a world fascinated by mysteries in the sky and searching for meaning, we have the privilege of pointing others to the ultimate answer: Jesus, the Christ.
This Christmas, as you hear stories of orbs and drones or find yourself gazing at the night sky, remember the shepherds who witnessed a far greater wonder. The true meaning of Christmas is not in the mysteries that perplex us but in the revelation of God’s love through the birth of His Son.
Let us approach this season with hearts full of wonder, minds open to God’s revelation, and spirits overflowing with joy. And as we celebrate the Savior’s birth, let us share the good news with a world longing for hope. For unto us, a child is born, and He is Christ the Lord.
To God be all the glory, now and forever.
Were you able to glean and grow from this message so God can be further glorified and His Kingdom magnified? If so, I would love to hear from you. Follow this link to get in touch… Let’s pray!
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the wonder of that holy night when Your glory lit up the skies, and the angel proclaimed the good news of great joy.
Just as the shepherds heard of the Savior’s birth, open our hearts to receive Your message of hope and peace today.
Remind us not to fear but to trust in the gift of Jesus, our Messiah and Lord. May we, like the shepherds, share this good news with all we meet, so that the joy of Christ’s coming fills the earth.
In the precious name of Jesus, we pray.
Amen.
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre