Podcasts about shepherds

For hundreds of years, the left has seen religion and in particular Christian churches as the enemy, and America got the latest reminder of that over the weekend when a mob disrupted a Christian worship service with the help of failed CNN anchor Don Lemon. The show explains the left's long history of anti-Christian hostility and calls for accountability. "Shepherds for Sale" author Megan Basham explains how this anti-Christian harassment is joined by steady internal subversion, and reacts to "rising star" Democrat James Talarico, a "seminarian," claiming that all religions are just as good as Christianity. Watch every episode ad-free on members.charliekirk.com! Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the close of the nineteenth century, serial killer Joseph Vacher terrorized the French countryside for years, eluding capture while murdering more victims than Jack the Ripper. His sprawling crime wave ultimately drew in prosecutor Emile Fourquet and pioneering criminologist Alexandre Lacassagne, whose pursuit of Vacher helped push criminal investigations toward the modern era. My guest is Douglas Starr, author of "The Killer of Little Shepherds: A True Crime Story and the Birth of Forensic Science". He shares details with us about Vacher's reign of terror and the groundbreaking investigation that led to his conviction. The author's website: https://douglasstarr.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Finding the Child by Finding the Mother Today's Homily reflects on the Gospel of Christ's birth and naming, . . . . . . emphasizing that the Nativity is not a past event but a living, ever-new mystery that renews time itself. The Church proclaims that the birth of Jesus . . . God entering human history. . . stands at the true beginning of every year, making time “full” through Christ. January 1st, the Octave Day of Christmas and the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, and that to know the Son is to know the Mother. The Homily further highlights the blessing from the Book of Numbers . . . “May the Lord let his face shine upon you” . . . fulfilled in Christ, whose face first shines upon Mary and then upon all humanity. Shepherds and Magi alike find Jesus by finding His Mother, illustrating their inseparable bond. Jesus comes not for us to take Him home, but to bring us home into God's family through adoption. Mary, entrusted with the name of Jesus, reveals it to the world, making her the Mother of God, the Church, and all believers. The faithful are invited to begin the year seeking God's blessing, peace, and grace, confident that Christ . . . Son of God and Son of Mary . . . continues to shine His face upon them in the Eucharist. Listen more to Finding the Child by Finding the Mother ------------------------------------------------------ Quote from the Homily To know the Mother, to find the Mother, is to know and find the Son. This too is the great mystery that the scriptures of these days unfold before us. First it is the shepherds who come, and they find the child by finding His mother. This coming Sunday, we will celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany and the three magi come, and they will find the child by finding the mother. Know how wonderful this is, this inseparability between the two of them. To know the Son is to know the Mother. To know the Mother is to know the Son. This should not surprise us because the Lord has come. The Lord has come. Born of woman, born of Mary, born of a mother, not simply for us to receive Him. He has come to receive us. Jesus does not come into the world for us to take him home with us. Jesus comes into the world to bring us home with him. ------------------------------------------------------ Art Work Adoration: Italian Painter: Cappella Sassetti: 1485 ------------------------------------------------------ Gospel Reading: Luke 2: 16-21 First Reading: Numbers 6: 22-27 Second Reading: Galatians 4: 4-7

What if your Australian Shepherd's biggest superpower isn't speed or herding instinct… but their nose? In this episode of The Instinctive Australian Shepherd, host Jacque Tinker sits down with Kallie Bongtrager, a Nursery Inspector and Compliance Officer with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources—and a handler who takes her working Aussies into the field to help detect one of the most disruptive invasive pests in the U.S.: the spotted lanternfly. Kallie shares what her job looks like on the ground—inspecting nurseries, tracking plant pests and pathogens, and responding to public reports—then takes us deep into the real-world process of training detection dogs on lanternfly egg masses (including the surprising challenges: "dead" vs. "live" eggs, changing scent over time, tiny odor cones, and why trust in your dog matters more than your eyes). You'll also meet her three Aussies: Que (retired, still brilliant, still hungry) Epic (the seasoned field dog with the "freeze-and-dance" alert) River (the young trainee learning the difference between "search" and "follow my footsteps") Along the way, you'll hear a jaw-dropping story about egg masses hidden inside a woodpecker hole and under bark—found by scent alone—plus a candid look at how conservation detection work is built through experimentation, mistakes, and miles. If you've ever wondered what "a real job" for an Aussie can look like outside the ranch—or you're looking for ways to channel that busy brain into meaningful work—this one will light you up. Topics include: conservation detection dogs, spotted lanternfly impact, training aids and scent tubes, field searches on the edge of infestations, handler trust, and why mental work can tire an Aussie better than endless fetch. www.theinstinctiveaussie.com  

Alive is our weekly Sunday preparation. In this episode, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reflects on the Gospel for the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (John 1:29–34) and the powerful words we hear at every Mass: “Behold the Lamb of God.” Why does John the Baptist choose this title for Jesus? This reflection weaves together:  • Bethlehem as the House of Bread  • Jesus laid in a manger — a feeding trough  • The shepherds who raised lambs for temple sacrifice  • And the fulfillment of it all in the Eucharist From the unblemished lambs of the Temple, to the Lamb who takes away the sins of the world, this Gospel reveals that Jesus is not a symbol — He is the reality. As priests lift up the Eucharist at Mass, they echo the words of John the Baptist and the faith of the Bethlehem shepherds, holding not a sacrifice that points forward, but the Lamb who fulfills every promise.

Meet the intense, young band bringing UK82 back to ATL26. Back in December I caught up with local (mostly) teenaged crusters Corporatocracy after a show with Atlanta extreme metal heavyweights Shepherds ov the Veil, Fleshgrid, and Dungeon Filth. By far the youngest band on the bill, after the show the other bands swarmed around them with praise for their stage presence and the energy they brought to the show. From my perch in the crowd, I’d have to agree. You don’t see many bands in Atlanta sporting anarchist literature at the merch table or drawing out balaclava-wearing crust punks to mosh in the pit. This band of three teenagers and one cool-assed dad has been punching way above their weight in the Atlanta music scene, so we’re happy to premiere an exclusive stream of their first self-titled EP (out January 16th) below. If you’ve ever wished you could go back in time and catch Discharge, Extreme Noise Terror, or Anti-Cimex as young, pissed-off punks full of piss and vinegar, check out the music and interview below. Corporatocracy by Corporatocracy Check out Corporatocracy on IG and stream or download their EP starting January 16th on BC (or Spotify if you’re lame).

01/11/2026

God is not pleased with His people. He will cause His shepherds to cry. (Jeremiah 25:34-38) NKJV.

Welcome to the Christmas series! It is time for God to announce the arrival of his only begotten Son. Who shall He choose to proclaim his arrival to first? Kings? Priests? No… He sends a choir of angels to lowly shepherds.  Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The relationship between sheep & humans stretches back 12,000 years. These docile and productive animals provide delicious meat & high-quality fiber. Robert Irwin, Dylan Boeken and Sallie Calhoun share why lamb matters, how thoughtful grazing sustains ecosystems & how their industry can reduce toxic waste and us of herbicides, while it reduces fire danger

In this final chapter of the 'Road to Bethlehem' series, we witness the culmination of Joseph and Mary's journey as they arrive in Bethlehem. The narrative captures the raw and intimate moments of Jesus' birth, highlighting the challenges and divine interventions along the way. The story emphasizes themes of faith, courage, and the miraculous nature of Jesus' arrival, as well as the humble and holy setting of the stable where shepherds and angels gather to witness the birth of the Savior.Bethlehem, Jesus' birth, Joseph and Mary, faith, courage, divine intervention, shepherds, angels, Savior, stableJoseph and Mary faced numerous challenges on their journey to Bethlehem.The birth of Jesus was marked by divine interventions and miracles.Faith and courage were central to Joseph and Mary's journey.The stable was a humble yet holy setting for Jesus' birth.Shepherds and angels gathered to witness the birth of the Savior.The narrative emphasizes the miraculous nature of Jesus' arrival.Joseph's role as protector and provider is highlighted.Mary's strength and faith are central to the story.The story captures the raw and intimate moments of Jesus' birth.The series concludes with a message of hope and faith.KeywordsTakeaways

Preacher: Jason Min Title: Shepherds Series: Leadership in the Way of Jesus Scripture: 1 Peter 5:1-4 (NIV)

Topical Sermons / Speaker:Berry Kercheville The post And He Gave Evangelists, Shepherds, Teachers appeared first on Woodland Hills Church of Christ.

The Poems recited are as follows: BC: AD By U.A. Fanthorpe |Christmas Poem By Wendell Berry | Song of the Shepherds By Richard Bauckham | The Hope Of The Few By Ian Adams | Born in You By Ian Adams | A Christmas Blessing By John O'Donohue. The music we used in the Scared Space for Christmas 2025 that you might want to listen to was: Shepherds Arise – Kate Rusby |O Antiphons – Floriani |Blake's Lullaby - The Choir of King's College, Cambridge, Daniel Hyde & Britten Sinfonia |Little Town - Over the Rhine |Benedictus (The Canticle of Zechariah) (feat. Rebecca De La Torre) - The Modern Psalmist |With This Love - Peter Gabriel |No Body (feat. Matt Maher) - Chris Renzema |Joseph - Kate Rusby |Visita, quaesumus Domine - The Cambridge Singers & John Rutter |Magnificat anima mea Dominum - The Tallis Scholars & Peter Phillips. The episode of the Grim Up North Podcast can be found here. Series Two - Episode Six The Caravaggio painting can be viewed here. The Adoration of the Shepherds          

The Meaning of Christmas: Sharing Our Humanity, Sharing His Divinity The Homily reflects on the Prologue of the Gospel of John, . . . . . . proclaiming Jesus as the eternal Word who was with God and is God, through whom all things were made. This Word, existing from the beginning, did not come into being but became flesh in the Incarnation. The Homily links this mystery to the liturgical gesture of mixing water and wine at Mass, symbolizing humanity being united with divinity through Christ, who humbled Himself to share fully in our human condition. This mystery of the Word becoming flesh is presented as the heart of Christmas and of Christian life itself: God became human so that we may become Divine. Christianity is Participation in Divine Life The Homily challenges us to apply this truth practically . . . by humility, self-giving, and a willingness to “become less” for the sake of love and relationship. Through a story about two outsiders responding differently to villagers' fear of a rabbit, the message illustrates that transformation happens only through solidarity and shared experience. Ultimately, Christianity is described not merely as morality or spirituality, but as participation in divine life made possible by God's radical act of love in the Incarnation. Listen to The Meaning of Christmas: Sharing Our Humanity, Sharing His Divinity -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Art Work The Adoration of the Shepherds (cropped): German Painter: Anton Raphael Mengs: 1765

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A sermon in our Advent series "Face to Face."Scripture: Luke 2:8-14

A sermon in our Advent series "Face to Face."Scripture: Luke 2:8-14

Teacher: Randy Fall Download Sermon Notes  Watch Episode Give Online: http://westgatechapel.org/give Connect With Us: http://westgatechapel.org/connect Chapters (00:00:00) - Christmas Family(00:00:30) - The Joy of the Lord(00:10:08) - Wonders of Westgate Chapel Service(00:11:26) - 3 Things to Know Before the 2021 Annual Meeting(00:15:17) - House of the Lord(00:28:00) - Care Pastor Randy Fall(00:30:51) - Christmas: A Year Ends(00:32:55) - All God's Love Revealed(00:34:02) - The Gift of God(00:36:22) - Christmas Story: God's Love reaches the Ordinary(00:42:11) - God's Love Came in the Humblest Way(00:46:42) - 3 Truths of God's Love(00:53:08) - Jesus' Peace for Nations(00:56:04) - Truth #4, The Shepherds(01:00:08) - 4,000 Gospel Conversations in 2025(01:04:44) - A Simple Invite(01:06:47) - Christmas Story: Repentance and Faith(01:11:42) - Go Tell It on the Mountain

First Sunday of Christmas - Pastor Jeff Ruby gives the message titled, 'The Shepherds' based on

During this message, we looked at part of the Christmas series in Luke chapter 2 to see the story of the Shepherds. Great joy is associated with... God's personal nature and God's saving nature. This weekend, Pastor Mark Pope guided us through these two important points as we wrapped up our Joy series. This week be encouraged to prioritize the Good News.

The Next Right Thing   Deuteronomy 31:7-8 We will be going back over the Shepherds prayer challenge for kicking off 2026 and revisit the seven keys and create a bit of a roadmap for where Northwest is going and things to be excited about in 2026. 

Luke 2:8-14Living BibleThat night some shepherds were in the fields outside the village, guarding their flocks of sheep.  Suddenly an angel appeared among them, and the landscape shone bright with the glory of the Lord. They were badly frightened, but the angel reassured them.“Don't be afraid!” he said. “I bring you the most joyful news ever announced, and it is for everyone! The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born tonight in Bethlehem! How will you recognize him? You will find a baby wrapped in a blanket,[b] lying in a manger!”Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others-the armies of heaven—praising God:“Glory to God in the highest heaven,” they sang,[c] “and peace on earth for all those pleasing him.”Imagine for a moment that you're a shepherd back in the B.C. days. It's just another cold, lonely, pitch-dark night, sitting by the fire, watching the sheep. Then, suddenly, a blinding light pierces through the blackness, and you're face to face with an angel. He sees the terror in your eyes, knows you think that he has come to kill you because of your sin and low position, so then he declares, “Don't be scared. I have good news of great joy for all people.”  Disbelief overwhelms reality as you think, “Why me? And why here? … Aren't there some important people somewhere to do this? After all, we're just shepherds.”Shepherds, as a stereotype, had a reputation for being low-lives, men of bad reputation. They didn't observe the ceremonial law and were not religious men. They were so known for stealing and dishonesty that their testimony would not be considered reliable enough to testify in court. Think about that… God chose first to announce He was here to these men of bad reputation. He made His birth announcement to the least of these, setting a pattern for His Son's ministry.On that night, that holy night, everything changed and the broken, rejected, lowest of society were the ones that God chose to tell first. The words of the beautiful song, Oh Holy Night, capture the essence of that encounter.As we finish our time together - let me read you the words for this beautiful song. O holy night, the stars are brightly shining, It is the night of the dear Saviour's birth; Long lay the world in sin and error pining, 'Till he appeared and the soul felt its worth. A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices, For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn; Fall on your knees, Oh hear the angel voices! O night divine! O night when Christ was born.Father, we thank you for this time of joyful waiting. May the hope and joy of this season fill our hearts and make us living signs of your love for a world that hungers for your peace. Immanuel, God with us. Amen

It is time for God to announce the arrival of his only begotten Son. Who shall He choose to proclaim his arrival to first? Kings? Priests? No… He sends a choir of angels to lowly shepherds.Today's Bible verse is Luke 2:10, from the King James Version.Download the Pray.com app for more Christian content including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Pray.com is the digital destination for faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them. And they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." (Luke 2:8- 14)

In this Christmas Eve sermon, Bishop Paul Donison asks the question, “Why are the shepherds here?” and helps us see the meaning behind their unlikely presence. In the ancient world, shepherds were seen as low-class and untrusted, yet Scripture promised that the coming king would arrive as a shepherd to care for his people. The child Jesus in the manger fulfills that promise, coming to be with us, to watch over us, and to demonstrate that he wants us.

A Christmas Eve Meditation to families at Kintore College, on December 24th, 2025.Luke 2, 1-14: The account of the decree and the shepherdsToday in the town of David a saviour has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. And here is a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.' And suddenly with the angel there was a great throng of the heavenly host, praising God and singing: ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace to men who enjoy his favour.'Why was the child in swaddling cloths a sign to the shepherds? What made them drop down to worship? What makes us drop down to worship God in our life?Thumbnail: Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (1617–1682), The Adoration of the Shepherds (c 1650), oil on canvas, 187 x 228 cm, Museo Nacional del Prado, MadridMusic: Angelic Choir Library with license from Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.

The Shepherds and the Wise Men: They're included in nativities everywhere. Yet there's a deeper meaning to their roles in the Christmas story. You've heard the expression: "Shop until You Drop". It nearly happened to one woman literally. She ... ...

The Shepherds and the Wise Men: They're included in nativities everywhere. Yet there's a deeper meaning to their roles in the Christmas story. You've heard the expression: "Shop until You Drop". It nearly happened to one woman literally. She ... ...

The Shepherds and the Wise Men: They're included in nativities everywhere. Yet there's a deeper meaning to their roles in the Christmas story. You've heard the expression: "Shop until You Drop". It nearly happened to one woman literally. She ... ...

The Shepherds and the Wise Men: They're included in nativities everywhere. Yet there's a deeper meaning to their roles in the Christmas story. You've heard the expression: "Shop until You Drop". It nearly happened to one woman literally. She ... ...

The Shepherds and the Wise Men: They're included in nativities everywhere. Yet there's a deeper meaning to their roles in the Christmas story. You've heard the expression: "Shop until You Drop". It nearly happened to one woman literally. She ... ...

The Shepherds and the Wise Men: They're included in nativities everywhere. Yet there's a deeper meaning to their roles in the Christmas story. You've heard the expression: "Shop until You Drop". It nearly happened to one woman literally. She ... ...

Click here for more on this topic and other free resources - https://www.drjimrichards.com From childhood, most of us have heard “the Christmas story” so many times that it becomes easy to reduce it to a sentimental scene—a manger, a few shepherds, and a star overhead. But in Scripture, the birth of Jesus is anything but a children's tale. It is a precise, prophetic, and powerful unveiling of God's plan for the world. Long before that night in Bethlehem, God foretold where the Messiah would be born, when He would come, and how He would be protected from destruction. Nothing happened by accident; everything unfolded exactly as He declared. Behind the simplicity of the nativity is a remarkable backstory. Prophecies in Daniel revealed the timing of the Messiah's arrival. Herod's violent reaction mirrored ancient attempts to stop God's deliverance. Shepherds near Bethlehem guarded the very lambs used for Passover—pointing to Jesus as the true Lamb of God. And John the Baptist, uniquely qualified by lineage, stood as the only priest able to identify the Messiah with divine authority. When you see how perfectly God fulfilled His word in Jesus' first coming, confidence in His promises—including His return—becomes unshakable. This isn't just history; it's an invitation to trust. The Christmas story anchors your heart in the unchanging faithfulness of God. He is not a destroyer but a deliverer—warning, preparing, and guiding His people just as He did in the days of Joseph, Mary, and the shepherds. When you understand how thoroughly He has kept His promises, you gain courage to believe Him for what lies ahead, both in the world and in your own life. Join me this week in CyberChurch for The Power of the Christmas Story, as we uncover the hidden power within the birth of Jesus and learn how it strengthens your faith, restores confidence in God's Word,

Peace came first to people who needed it most. Shepherds in the dark. Then heaven broke through with the Prince of Peace. In this Christmas message, experience the peace that transforms.NEXT STEPSHave you made the decision to follow Jesus? You might be wondering what's next for you. We want to help! Check out these resources to ​​discover what saying yes to Jesus means: https://www.life.church/yesCelebrate Christmas at Life.ChurchIn a world that can feel dark, uncertain, and heavy, there's a peace that changes everything. His name is Jesus. We invite you to spend the Christmas season at Life.Church. Come as you are, bring your friends, and get ready to be filled with the peace that only Jesus can bring. Find out more about Christmas at Life.Church: https://www.life.church/christmas/ABOUT THIS MESSAGEYou might be feeling a lot of things this Christmas season—and not all of them joyful. Maybe you're struggling with loneliness or wondering if anyone really sees you. Jesus came to meet you right where you're at and be exactly what you need. Let's discover who Jesus is and what that can mean for us in our new series.The Gift: An Advent Devotional: https://finds.life.church/advent-devotional/7 Powerful Names of Jesus in the Bible: http://go2.lc/jesus-namesThe Christmas Story Bible Plan: https://go2.lc/christmas25ABOUT LIFE.CHURCHWherever you are in life, you have a purpose. Life.Church wants to help you find your next step. Our hope is that your journey will include joining us at a Life.Church location throughout the United States or globally online at https://www.live.life.churchFind locations, videos, and more info about us at https://www.life.church or download the Life.Church app at https://www.life.church/appFIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/life.churchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/life.churchTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifechurchYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@life.churchCONNECT WITH PASTOR CRAIG GROESCHELYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/craiggroeschelFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/craiggroeschelInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/craiggroeschelTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@craiggroeschelLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/35447748/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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The shepherds were ordinary people, faithfully tending their flocks, when God interrupted their routine with extraordinary news. Chosen to witness the birth of the Savior, these humble outcasts responded with immediate obedience, awe, and heartfelt praise. Luke’s Gospel reminds us that God meets us exactly where we are—not where we think we should be. True worship isn’t limited to church services or special moments; it flows from obedience, attentiveness, and living each moment for God’s glory. Like the shepherds, we are invited to respond to Jesus with joyful praise and to glorify God in the everyday rhythms of life. Main Takeaways You’ll learn why God often meets us in ordinary moments, just as He did with the shepherds. Discover how obedience to God naturally leads to joy and worship. Understand that worship extends beyond singing—it includes everyday acts done for God’s glory. Be encouraged that God can use you right where you are, regardless of your circumstances. Reflect on how living with eternity in mind shapes a life of praise and purpose. Bible Verse References Luke 2:20 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/luke/2-20.html Luke 2:8–14 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/luke/passage/?q=luke+2:8-14 Luke 2:15–16 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/luke/passage/?q=luke+2:15-16 Psalm 139:7–8 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/psalms/passage/?q=psalm+139:7-8 1 Corinthians 10:31 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/1-corinthians/10-31.html Your Daily Prayer Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You meet us where we are and work through ordinary lives for Your glory. Open our eyes to see Your presence in our daily routines and help us respond with obedience, joy, and praise. Teach us to do everything—both big and small—for Your honor. May our lives reflect worship in spirit and in truth, and may we boldly share the good news of Jesus, just as the shepherds did.Amen. Want More? Subscribe to Your Daily Prayer for daily encouragement rooted in Scripture. Leave a rating or review to help others discover the podcast. Visit LifeAudio.com to explore more Christ-centered podcasts. Read more devotionals and Bible studies at Crosswalk.com and Christianity.com. Relevant Links & Resources Study today’s Scripture passages with helpful tools at:BibleStudyTools.com – https://www.biblestudytools.com Faith-based articles and Christmas devotionals:Crosswalk.com – https://www.crosswalk.comChristianity.com – https://www.christianity.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Peace came first to people who needed it most. Shepherds in the dark. Then heaven broke through with the Prince of Peace. In this Christmas message, experience the peace that transforms.

The shepherd ornament takes Miss Dee Livery into the fields near Bethlehem, where ordinary shepherds received the first announcement of Jesus' birth. Angels filled the sky with praise, and the shepherds hurried to meet the newborn King. As we near Christmas, the Jesse Tree reminds us that Jesus came for everyone—and His birth is good news for the whole world.Follow Us:Instagram | Website | Newsletter Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The first announcement of Jesus’ birth wasn’t delivered to kings or crowds—it was given to shepherds under a night sky filled with glory. Luke 2:9–12 reveals a powerful invitation to come and see the newborn Savior, reminding us that the Good News of Christmas is meant to be received personally and shared boldly. Highlights God chose ordinary shepherds to receive an extraordinary invitation. Heaven’s announcement of Jesus’ birth was marked by joy, peace, and glory. The shepherds responded immediately—moving from fear to action. Encountering Jesus naturally led them to tell others what they had seen. The Christmas story begins with an invitation and continues through sharing. Bold faith has always been central to spreading the message of Christ. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: The Shepherds’ Invitation: Come and See By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.’” - Luke 2:9-12 What a terrifying, yet amazing, birth announcement, to be awoken in the middle of the night, greeted with a host of heavenly angels filling and illuminating the dark sky to tell the shepherds the Good News of Jesus’ birth, inviting them to come and see the newborn King. As written in Luke 2:13-14, “Suddenly 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 those on whom His favor rests.’” If that isn’t a royal, over-the-top, fanfare invitation, then what is? Even though the invitation startled the shepherds awake, once they recovered, they willingly accepted God’s gracious heavenly invitation to see the newborn King. As Luke 2:15-16 describes, “When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.’ So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.” Spreading the Word: Inviting Everyone to Come and See After coming and seeing, Luke 2:17-18 describes what happened next, “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.” Accepting the angels’ invitation to come and see Jesus led the shepherds to spread the word by inviting everyone they met to go and see Him, too. It was a divine response from their hearts. As well, once we see Jesus for ourselves, our hearts are moved to invite others to come and see Him, too. Jesus Invites Everyone Jesus entered the world with an invitation, and He left us with one, too. Some of Jesus’ last words on earth are found in Mark 16:15, where He said to His followers, “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to all creation.” The shepherds on that first Christmas night did just that, spreading the word of His birth and coming to the earth. They also told others how to find Him, and as they did, so are we all called to tell others, too. In school, I knew Jesus, but I didn’t tell anyone, so sadly, I didn’t lead anyone around me to faith in Him. Yet, my future husband made sure to tell everyone he met about Jesus at school, to the point that some other students who had heard about him avoided him. Even so, he still led more people to faith in Jesus than his preaching scared them away. Dr. D. James Kennedy, the late and great senior pastor of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church and founder of Evangelism Explosion, was known for his tremendous boldness and fearless sharing of the Gospel with everyone he met. He didn’t even second-guess sharing his faith with individuals of other religious beliefs, or let people in high-profile positions in life keep him from sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with them. Because of Dr. Kennedy’s fearlessness, countless souls have been invited to meet Jesus as their Savior, and countless numbers continue to be saved through his ministries, teaching others to be bold in sharing the Gospel with those around them. Intersecting Faith & Life: As Christians, are we inviting individuals to come and see Jesus, our newborn King, at Christmastime and all year round? Or, are we hesitating, not wanting to offend, or have people shy away from us? Are we like the shepherds so many years ago, willing to boldly tell others because we know it is the Good News of Christmas? Further Reading:The First Time Shepherds Heard about Jesus Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It was Christmas Eve, and the Hutchcraft family was acting out the Christmas story. Our daughter was Mary, with a towel draped over her head. Our oldest son was Joseph, bathrobe and all. Our then two-year-old son was the closest we could come to a baby, so he was in the giant laundry basket. I was, of course, an angel dressed in a white sheet, sitting celestially on the back of the couch. And my wife - well, she wanted to be a sheep. So she was crawling around the living room floor with our sheepskin rug draped over her, doing her very best "baaa's." And the doorbell rang! It was two teenage girls from our youth group. Their folks were home getting drunk, and they were wondering if they could come to our house for a little sanity. When they came in, our Christmas players were in full gear, "baaa" and all. The door was open and we invited them right into our Christmas. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "The Open Door at the Manger." It was only appropriate that we should say to anyone who came to our door on Christmas Eve, "Come on in." After all, that's what God did when His Son was born that first Christmas. He threw open the door and said, "Come on in" no matter what you're like. He might be saying that to you this very day. Anybody's welcome to come on in and join God's family. How do we know? Well, for one thing, look at who got the first invitation to "come on in." Shepherds. These guys were considered the lowest of the low-lifes. They were unfit to even be allowed in God's temple. So of all the people God could invite to the first Christmas party, who does He ask to come? Shepherds. It says so in Luke 2, beginning with verse 8, in our Christmas word for today from the Word of God. "There were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them..." The angel made this startling announcement: "Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord." So Jesus begins His life on earth by welcoming in people that most would say are definitely "not His type." Maybe that's how you feel; you're not the religious type. Maybe you, like the shepherds, have experienced your share of closed doors, rejection, condemnation, and plenty of loneliness. It could be you've done a lot of things, and made a lot of mistakes, just looking for love and acceptance. And you know you've done a lot of wrong things. But that's the very kind of people Jesus came for! The people who miss Jesus and miss heaven are the people who think they've got it all together, who are very religious and very good and they think not really in need of a Savior who died on the cross for their sins. But just like He did for those shepherds, whether you were born in church or never been in church in your life, Jesus is throwing open the door to His family and to His heaven and He's saying, "Come on in. I died. I rose again so you and I can be together forever." The greatest mistake you could ever make would be if you missed what Jesus died to give you. Can you think of a better time to throw open the door of your life to Jesus than Christmastime - the time He left heaven to come here to rescue you? He's waiting for you to reach out to Him and put your total trust in what He did for you on the cross - whatever you've done. This isn't about what you've done. It's about what He's done on the cross for you. Right where you are, at this very special time, why don't you tell Him, "Jesus, I'm Yours from this day on." Your life will never be the same. I would love to help you right now make that new beginning of making the Savior your Savior this Christmas season. I just invite you to go to our website and there you can find for yourself how to be sure you've begun this relationship with Jesus. The website is ANewStory.com. And as we celebrate the day Jesus was born, you can celebrate the day you get born into His family. Go to sleep tonight with Christ in your heart with His peace in your soul. From Him, and from our team here - Merry Christmas!

One of the most shocking parts of the Christmas story isn't the virgin birth or the angels—it's who got invited first. Pastor Levi shares how Shepherds, who were outcasts, couldn't testify in court, religiously unclean, and totally unwanted, were the VIPs at Jesus' birth. This reveals something stunning about God's Kingdom: it operates completely upside-down from everything we expect. If you've ever felt unqualified, too messy, or like you're in the wrong place for God to use you—this Christmas message will show you why those are exactly the credentials Heaven celebrates!GIVE YOUR YEAR-END OFFERING:Be a part of building the Kingdom: https://freshlife.church/give/NEXT STEPS:Ask for prayer or connect with a pastor: https://freshlife.church/contactRegister your decision to follow Jesus and receive free resources: https://freshlife.church/know-godGive a financial gift to support what God is doing as we take steps forward to see the Gospel reach far and wide: https://freshlife.church/giveSUBSCRIBE:Sign up to receive encouragement straight to your inbox, and to stay up to date with announcements, events, and more: https://church.us13.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=6ea4d82b2567db3e86b7767cd&id=451f2fe63eDon't miss a video! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/freshlifechurch?sub_confirmation=1CONNECT ON SOCIALS:Website: https://freshlife.churchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshlifeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/freshlifechurchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/freshlifeYoutube: https://youtube.com/c/freshlifechurch/Fresh Life Church was pioneered by Pastors Levi and Jennie Lusko in 2007. We exist to see those stranded in sin find life and liberty in Jesus Christ. Today Fresh Life's ministry impacts people with the radical, life-changing message of Jesus' grace, spilling across Montana, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming, and Idaho… and beyond.

Send us a textWhat happens when you change one word in the title of a classic Christmas hymn? A new perspective and a fresh reason to dive into Scripture. This week's song, “O Come, All You Unfaithful” by Sovereign Grace Music, invites us to consider the people God included in the Christmas story—and how we are just like them.This song flips the script on who is invited to come and see what God has done. Instead of calling the faithful to gather in celebration, it beckons the weary, the broken, and the unfaithful—the ones who feel disqualified. That single word change in the title opens the door for us to explore the heart of God revealed in Scripture: a God who draws near to the weak and the waiting, the guilty and the hiding, and offers hope through Christ's birth.Key PointsThe opening line of this song—“O come, all you unfaithful”—offers a perspective shift worth exploring.The lyrics list characteristics that mirror real people in the Christmas narrative: Weak and unstableBarrenWaitingWeary of prayingBitter and brokenFears unspokenGuiltyHidingGod included these kinds of people in His redemption story—and He invites us too.Hosea's prophecy reminds us of God's faithfulness despite our unfaithfulness.We are unfaithful until we are redeemed by the Faithful One—Jesus.Scriptures ReferencedMatthew 1–2 and Luke 1–2 (Christmas narrative)Luke 1:5–7; 11–20 (Zechariah and Elizabeth)Luke 2:8–9; 25; 38 (Shepherds, Simeon, and Anna)Matthew 1:18–20; 24 (Joseph's obedience)James 2:5 (God chooses the poor)Hosea 2:16–20; 6:3; 6:6–7 (God's steadfast love and faithfulness)BITEs (Bible Interaction Tool Exercises)Read in context—Matthew 1–2 and Luke 1–2Read aloud—alone or with a friendShare with a friend—Share Scripture with someone over coffee and Christmas cookiesCompare and contrast—Compare and contrast God's faithfulness with the faithlessness of His people in Hosea's prophecy Remember, the people in Scripture were real—just like usAdditional ResourcesDownload the free Episode GuideLyrics - New Release TodayBible Interaction Roadmap Bible Study - videos and assignments that will equip you with habits you can use over and over in your own Bible Study - Learn MoreLearn more about my favorite Bible Study Software with a 30-day free trial and links to my favorite Bible resources - Logos Bible Software Affiliate LinkThis Week's ChallengeRead Matthew 1-2 and Luke 1-2. I suggest reading the text aloud alone or with a friend. The story is familiar, and this habit will slow you down. Download the Episode Guide for a list of the human characteristics featured in our song, and look for these characteristics in the real people featured in the Christmas narrative. Read the prophecy of Hosea and compare and contrast the faithfulness of God to the unfaithfulness of His people. ThePurchase your copy of A Seat at the Table today! Change your music. Change your life. Join my free 30-Day Music Challenge. CLICK HERE.

We've heard this story so many times that it doesn't surprise us like it ought to. And what boy hasn't dressed like a shepherd for a Christmas play? But what was an ordinary workplace for these blue-collar sheep farmers became holy ground on this particular night. They were in for five surprises that would stay with them forever. Let's try to put ourselves in their sandals.I. The Audience (v. 8)II. The Angels (v. 9)III. The Announcement (vv. 10-12)IV. The Anthem (vv. 13-14)V. The Accuracy (vv. 15-20)Talk with God: Ask the Lord for opportunities to turn your workplace into holy ground this week.Talk with others: Invite a friend or family member to join you for a Christmas Eve service.Talk with kids: What does it mean to worship Jesus as King?

We would love to pray for you! Please send us your requests here. --------This Christmas, you can shine the light of Christ into places of darkness and pain with a purchase from the Joni and Friends Christmas catalog. You are sending hope and practical care to people with disabilities, all in the name of Jesus! Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Luke 2: 15-20 - When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” [16] And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. [17] And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. [18] And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. [19] But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. [20] And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. (ESV) THE EVENING MINDSET IS COMING! Beginning January 1 - 2026 - A new DAILY podcast will be available to help you wind down, reset your mind on God’s truth, and prepare for a night of rest and rejuvenation. “The Daily Mindset” will launch on the podcast player of your choice on January 1, 2026. Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode: https://EveningMindset.com