Shepherds, Do Not Be Afraid!
Opening Questions:
In what places or situations do you find yourself feeling most anxious or vulnerable?
Scripture Reading: Luke 2:1-20
Feeling Terrified
Much of the shepherds’ terror may have resulted from the innate danger of their environment. These shepherds were in the fields at night to protect the sheep in their care from predators, thieves, and other dangers. How do you think their unique situation played into their fear?
How does your unique situation lend itself to fear? Consider your family background, upbringing, relationship dynamics, and socioeconomic status, as well as larger societal issues and current events.
Feeling Overjoyed
God sends Jesus’s birth announcement to shepherds, the cultural outcasts of the time. How would their lowly situation have affected the hope, love, joy, and peace they felt in response to the angel’s message?
How do the angel’s words still offer hope, love, joy, and peace to us today?