The Birth of Jesus Proclaimed...
J. W. McGarvey and Philip Y. Pendleton
The Birth of Jesus Proclaimed by Angels to the Shepherds
(Near Bethlehem, B. C. 5.)
Luke 2:8-20.
8 And there were shepherds in the same country [they were in the same fields from which David had been called to tend God's Israel, or flock] abiding in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock. [When the flock is too far from the village to lead it to the fold at night, these shepherds still so abide with it in the field, even in the dead of winter.]
9 And an angel of the Lord stood by them [He stood upon the earth at their side, and did not float above them in the heavens, as he is usually pictured. His standing upon the earth shows a fuller fellowship and sympathy with men--comp. Acts 1:10 ], and the glory of the Lord shone round about them [The Shechinah, or bright cloud, which symbolizes the divine presence ( Exodus 24:16 ; 1 Kings 8:10 ; Isaiah 6:1-3 ; Romans 9:4 ). It was seen by the three apostles upon the mount of transfiguration ( Matthew 17:5 ), by Stephen ( Acts 7:55 ), and by Paul-- Acts 22:6-11 ]: and they were sore afraid.
10 And the angel said unto them, Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy [Christianity is a religion of present joys, and leads onward to joy eternal] which shall be to all the people: