Advent Recovery Reflection by CA
“The first Noel, the angel did say, was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay…”
The opening line of The First Noel draws us into a humble and unlikely scene: shepherds out in the fields at night, unaware of the miracle about to unfold. Though they were lowly and forgotten by society, most likely viewed as unclean, God chose to reveal the arrival of the Messiah to shepherds first. Why? Perhaps because the shepherds’ hearts were open to receive the message of hope that others might have overlooked. But, what if the shepherds being targeted with this good message had less to do with the shepherds themselves and more to do with the imagery that would be used to describe Jesus in the days ahead, both as a sheep (John 1:29) and a shepherd (John 10:11). In the John 10:11 reference, Jesus tells his disciples that he is a “…good shepherd.” How appropriate that Jesus would identify with, by the world’s standards, the lowliest, the unclean. As one fighting for sexual purity, I know firsthand what it looks like to feel “lowly.” To feel unworthy and forgotten, even ashamed. But hear me, you are not forgotten, for Jesus not only is a good shepherd, he is a good shepherd who “lays his life down for the sheep.” Just as the angel brought good news to the shepherds, God wants to bring good news to each of us in this season—a reminder that He sent His Son to bring us peace, hope, and salvation. The “Noel” the angels announced was not just a song for shepherds; it was a declaration of God’s love and a call to worship. The shepherds didn’t just listen and go back to their routines; they hurried to see the baby in the manger, responding with awe and wonder. As we approach Christmas, we are called to respond as they did—to seek out Christ and allow His presence to fill us with joy. So this Christmas season, remember, you are loved. You are not forgotten…you are known. You are known by the Good Shepherd, Christ himself. Born is the King of Israel.
For more, Read John 1:1-21
Prayer: Lord, help me to hear Your voice in this busy season. Like the shepherds, give me an open heart to receive the good news of Jesus’ birth and the courage to respond with joy. May my life reflect the light and love of Christ as I draw nearer to You. Amen.
