Great joy for all the people

Christmas is a celebration for everyone, both for scholarly astronomers (the wise men) and for ordinary shepherds. It’s both for those who have the knowledge of some sort and for those who listen with their heart.

“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 2:10-11, NIV) Such is the message of a radian angel to dark shepherds.

Ordinary people become the focus of the events: “bring you good news” and “a Savior has been born to you.” 

The shepherds were poor yet not greedy. They shared the news with others. Indeed, the Good News was not merely for them but “for all the people.”

The shepherds became the first messengers of this joy. They ran and shared it in such a way that “all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.” (Luke 2:18, NIV)

Not only did they satisfy the curiosity of the listeners but also glorified and praised God for all they saw and heard (Luke 2:20).

We have heard the Good News too, haven’t we?

Shouldn’t we be quick to share it with others in our age of social networking and mobile communications?

What is holding us from being astonished with this news and astonishing others with it as if it is just another story and it doesn’t change anything?

Why are we keeping this great joy to ourselves while millions of refugees live in fear and despair, while wars and terrorism rob everyone of their peaceful sleep, and while poverty and injustice humiliate the dignity of people and nations?

How different our lives could be if everybody heard and believed the Good News of the Savior’s birth?

The shepherds didn’t remain silent.

Will we remain silent?