I think I would give just about ANYTHING to have been one of the shepherds that night. They had front row seats on the greatest event in the history of history … and they were the first to know! Even though an angel told them to not be afraid they were absolutely terrified by the glory of the Lord shining around them. But there was more! They heard the biggest headline ever given, “Good news of great joy …” and then the fireworks began: “A great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests.”

Now I don’t know if they just left their flocks or drove them ahead as they beat a path to the manger. I’m guessing they just left their sheep because the Scripture says “They hurried off …”(I’ve worked with sheep, they don’t hurry). Not only were they the first to hear, they were the first to see! They were also the first to tell others! And people actually believed them! What a night! When they went back, they must have been exhausted and yet so exhilarated. I’m certain their lives were never the same. It’s no wonder we celebrate!