God first announced the birth of His Son to lowly shepherds who were watching their sheep out in the fields (Luke 2:8-20). On that night their normal routine was interrupted by a visitor form heaven. Fear overtook them when suddenly an angel of the Lord stood before them. Those herders of sheep were no doubt relieved to find out that he brought from God good tidings. The angel indicated that on that very day in Bethlehem the long-awaited Messiah had been born. These good tidings brought by the angel would cause great joy to all the people of Israel for the One Who would save them from their oppressors had arrived. The Messiah, Christ the Lord would bring peace on earth to those on whom God’s favor rests.
These humble shepherds not only received the announcement that Messiah had come, but were privileged to see Him. They went to the city of David looking for a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger for this was the sign given them by the angel of the Lord. They found Him in the manger accompanied by Mary and Joseph. And when they had seen Him, they made known the saying which was told them concerning the Child. That saying is still included today in Christmas greeting cards: “For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” We too must make known this saying not only at Christmas, but all the year through. Jesus will one day save Israel from their oppressors, and through His death and resurrection saves from their sins all who trust in Him as their Savior.