“Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
Luke 2:8-11
The Christmas story is full of mystery because the human mind is unequipped to fathom the depths of the incarnation. The Anointed One promised by Yahweh to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David and the Hebrew prophets of old slipped into earth without earthly fanfare in the courts of the kings but rather to the fanfare of angles to shepherds out in fields. His grand arrival was highly secretive. This innocent child, born without sin, would soon conquer the worst of evil and decimate the schemes of the evil one. Fallen humanity would experience great joy. Peace between God and man was now made possible by the Savior.
The realities of the shepherds in the field are often overlooked by Hallmark cards and traditional carols. These Jewish men were living in an oppressive and heartless Roman world. Violence was celebrated through the gods and gladiators and unbridled sensuality was public throughout the empire. The regions of Judea and Samaria had a different vibe, the people dwelling there were desperate for hope! They longed for political salvation, of which there would be none. Pax Romana would reign for centuries more.
Yet, amid darkness and bad news, came a bright light proclaiming good news. A messenger announcing that God was working behind the scenes. His sovereignty was never absent, and His will was never obstructed.
Today, I firmly believe God is working in unseen ways to give us hope in Wyoming and making known His salvation to those who remain blind to His truth. Hope is the steadfast confidence that the best is yet to come. I believe it!
Let us rejoice this Christmas season in the birth of Jesus Christ our Lord. A Savior has come not to condemn us, but to save us from our sins. I pray your Christmas holiday is full of joy, memorable moments and peaceful family relationships.
God Bless,
Nathan Winters
Executive Director
