Reading through Christmas Nativity passages made a curious mind wonder;
Why did our Heavenly Father first announce the birth of our Lord and Savior to shepherds herding their flocks?
Luke 2:15 states:
And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
Shepherds appear throughout scripture, but why is this role so significant?
Reflecting on the Word, I was reminded that King David was tending sheep when Samuel came to anoint the next King of Israel. Moses spent a season of his life as a shepherd after fleeing Egypt. Abraham, too, was a great shepherd.
A common theme of leadership emerges from these lives. Before they led nations, they were required to serve in a stewardship role. The lessons learned in tending to large herds prepared them for God’s ultimate purpose.
God intentionally prepared these leaders so that when He fulfilled His covenantal promises, His people were cared for with the same purpose and love that a good Father has for His children. This is the providential nature of God.
In His love, our God crafts outstanding leadership by first honing it in service and stewardship.
God chose flawed individuals who possessed humility, boldness, and curiosity in the face of adversity. This combination is the “electric life source” of a believer—it is the spark that causes us to pause and acknowledge that God is God. It gives us the courage to follow Him into unknown depths, carrying His promises into fulfillment.
These individuals, prepared in the pasture, were chosen to lead God’s people. It makes me wonder: What do shepherds see in the Earth while they watch over their flocks?
The relationship between the shepherd and the sheep is such an anointed example that it will take time to explore fully. Ultimately, I believe it is a foundational component of God’s Providence.
Stay tuned for Part II of this exploration!
I pray you’re blessed and stewarding well what the Lord has gifted you in this season. 🖤
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