The Bible is rich with references to angels. Especially dear this time of year is the story of Jesus’ birth, heralded by angels and celebrated by shepherds and wise men alike. We read in the Gospel of Luke about the shepherds near Bethlehem, who, over two thousand years ago, were told what had just happened. One normal night they were watching over their flock, when suddenly “the angel of the Lord” appeared and announced the Savior’s birth (see Luke 2:8–18).
What might look to us today like one angel message was actually a series of messages, each preparing the listeners’ thought for the next idea. The angel didn’t tap the shepherds on their proverbial shoulders and say, “Surprise! Jesus is born!” Rather, the joyful announcement and directions were delivered one by one, each leading to another aspect of the message, until the fullness of the communication was illuminated in all its magnificent glory.
After making its presence and glory known, the angel told the shepherds first of all not to be afraid; then, that these were good tidings; then came the big news—in the city of David the Savior was born! Next the angel told them how to recognize the infant Christ Jesus. Finally, a “heavenly host” praised God and signaled the great blessing of this event to humankind.
