Everyone was astonished at what the shepherds had to say
Can you remember an experience in life that left you so overwhelmed with joy that you were moved to relate it to everyone you met? I remember the birth of each of our children and grandchildren in such a way. At each birth I was overcome with joy that I could not keep the good news to myself. I believe the shepherds in today’s Gospel had such an experience.
We reflect on the breaking in of their peace and tranquility, on the hillside with their sheep, when suddenly a choir of angels appear singing ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven’. They are given good news of a birth ‘the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.’
It is the same in our lives, God breaks in to our day to day patterns when we least expect it. Like the shepherds we are busy watching our flocks when angels appear to us with a message that changes our lives trajectory. It happened in my life in marriage, the birth of children and a call to ministry and recently a call to the diaconate.
When God breaks into our lives, He often does so in unexpected and transformative ways, just as He did with the shepherds. Their ordinary night on the hillside was interrupted by an extraordinary announcement, one that filled them with joy and compelled them to act.
They didn’t hesitate; they left their flocks and hurried to Bethlehem to see the Messiah. And after encountering Jesus, they couldn’t keep the good news to themselves—they returned glorifying and praising God, sharing their experience with everyone they met.
In the same way, God calls us to respond to His special call in our lives and to share His message of hope and joy. Whether it’s through significant life events like the birth of a child, a new calling, or even moments of quiet reflection, we are invited to recognize His voice in our lives and participate in His work. Like the shepherds, we are called to step out of our routines, to witness the wonder of God’s love, and to proclaim it to others.
How might this new year call us to embrace a new role in building God’s kingdom? May we have the faith of the shepherds to recognize God’s breaking into our lives, the humility to accept His call, and the courage to share the joy of His presence with others.
For many this new year starts with anxiety and concern about the future. Let us be open and prepared like Mary, Joseph and the shepherds for God’s answer to our prayers, knowing that his answer is often unexpected and calls for courage to answer his call.