Shepherds and Good News of Great Joy
Advent Joy and the Shepherds
Every Advent season, we celebrate joy. The third candle of the Advent wreath (the pink one) has often been called the Shepherd’s Candle. It reminds us of the angelic announcement in Luke 2:8–14, when God chose shepherds to hear the Good News of Great Joy.
The angels could have appeared to anyone, yet God revealed His Messiah to people who were often overlooked and underestimated.
Why Shepherds?
In the first century, shepherds were marginalized. They lived outside the city, worked long hours, and were often considered unclean. Religious leaders looked down on them because caring for sheep often meant missing Sabbath and temple worship.
Yet God chose them. The birth of Christ wasn’t first announced to kings or priests, but to humble shepherds in the field. That alone tells us something powerful about God’s heart.
The Joy of the Good Shepherd
Jesus later revealed Himself as the Good Shepherd.
He said, “I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me… and I lay down my life for the sheep” (John 10:14–16).
For us who believe, this is our greatest joy—we belong to Him. The angels’ announcement wasn’t just good news for the shepherds. It was good news for all people, including us.
Joy in the Found Sheep
The joy of the shepherds connects to another truth: heaven celebrates when the lost are found.
Jesus explained, “There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance”(Luke 15:4–7).
Christmas joy doesn’t end at the manger. It carries into the mission of Christ—seeking and saving the lost. When a sinner repents, it’s as if heaven throws a Christmas celebration.
What It Means for Us
The shepherds remind us that no one is too unclean, too unworthy, or too overlooked to be invited into God’s story. Their joy is our joy. The Messiah didn’t come for the elite, but for ordinary people like you and me.
This Advent, may we rejoice like the shepherds—humbled, surprised, and deeply grateful that God chose to include us in His Good News of Great Joy.
Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts
- Why do you think God chose shepherds for the angelic announcement?
- How does belonging to the Good Shepherd give you joy today?
- How does your church celebrate when someone is “found” and brought into God’s flock?
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