So [the shepherds] hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.

Luke 2:16 NIV

“Quick guys, this way. Run, keep up. He’s over here. This is it. We’ve found him, the Messiah. The angel said he’d be wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. There he is. Isn’t he beautiful? Wow, this little one is the Savior of the world. I can hardly believe I get to see him.” 

When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.

Luke 2:17–18

“This is too good to keep to ourselves. Let’s tell others so they will know the one we have been praying for has finally arrived. Everyone needs to know that the Savior has been born.”

But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.

Luke 2:19

“What just happened? Was I dreaming. His little face is so perfect and looks so normal. He must really be the Savior as the angel told me and Joseph. These shepherds have confirmed it. They said angels told them the same thing. And the angels spoke praises to God. They said peace will come to those on whom God’s favor rests. I think that’s me and Joseph and my child. How amazing. How inexplicable. God must be in this moment. I don’t want to ever forget this day. How can I remember it? I’ll save a piece of the cloth and dried straw.”

The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Luke 2:20

“We have just seen the Savior! Praise God! He has kept the promise he gave to our forefathers many years ago. A multitude of angels came while we were keeping our sheep and told us to go find a baby in Bethlehem wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. And we did! And he is there! The Messiah has come. To God be the glory!”

We continue to tell the message of the Messiah who came in human flesh so that he could represent God to mankind, announce the coming of his new kingdom and make the ultimate sacrifice so that all who believe may enter that kingdom.

To whom are you telling the Good News?

How are you treasuring and pondering the Good News? 

How are you praising God for all you have heard and seen? 

Next in series: Refugee

For an updated version of this, please purchase Favored Blessed Pierced: A Fresh Look at Mary of Nazareth, available on Amazon.