Shepherds lived out in the fields to watch over their flocks near Bethlehem. They provided for their sheep and protected them.
According to an Israeli history expert, the flocks near Bethlehem were special. This is where the sheep were raised that would be used for sacrifices at the temple in Jerusalem (Bethlehem was only about five miles from Jerusalem.)
These shepherds knew that their sheep would be used as sacrifices for the sins of the people. So, when the angel announced to them that Jesus would be born, they were able to go and see the "lamb of God"...the one sacrifice for sin that would pay the price for all mankind.
Jesus was born so that EVERYONE could have their sins forgiven and become part of God's family.
Read these verses: 2 Peter 3:9 and Acts 10:34
God even loved the smelly shepherds enough to send angels to make this announcement to them! He loves you too! Read Luke 2:4-20.
Merry Christmas!
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