Merry Christmas

As a little boy, I loved to read this part of the Bible.  My favorite part is where the angels appear to the shepherds, and tell them not to be afraid.  Can you imagine that night?  Quietly minding your animals, and watching the stars, when - BAM-  It's suddenly daylight, and a massive angel is standing in front of you, telling you that you don't have to be afraid.  

Some people might say that they wish they could see Jesus be born.  I'd rather let Mary and Joseph have their privacy, and instead hang out with the shepherds that night.  Besides, after the angels show up, we'd go visit the Holy Family anyway.  

 6And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

 7And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

 8And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

 9And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

 10And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

 11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

 12And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

 13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

 14Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

 15And 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.

 16And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

 17And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

 18And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

 19But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.   Luke 2: 6-19