One For All

 "And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you: He is the Messiah, the Lord.'" Luke 2: 8-10

    I love how the Savior came for everybody, regardless of race, social class or financial standing. Did you know that, in the culture of Christ's birth, shepherds were on the lowest rung of society's ladder? I read that, because their occupation engaged them in business with the Gentiles, the shepherds were not permitted to worship in the temple or to testify in court, yet God chose them to be the first witnesses of the long-awaited Messiah! From the angels to the Wise Men, the humble incarnation of God's Son is an indescribable gift wrapped in eternity.

    Why, then, is this Jesus such a stumbling block for some? The pride of man eschews the necessary contrition to admit this: There's nothing by our own strength, power or influence that can save us. No highbrow society, no repetitive prayer, no rank or celebrity, no toil nor wheedling or pleading can open the door of salvation to us. No sojourn to a distant city, no stellar church attendance nor missionary work in other lands can wash away our sins. Only Jesus can do that. He is the only way, the sole truth and the eternal life for all mankind. In agreement with Apostle Peter, I also testify, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)

    So, getting back to the lowly shepherds...After they hurried off to see this Gift for themselves, they didn't keep it under their hats. They spread the good news. So must we! I have good news that will bring great joy to all people:

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16