In that region there were shepherds, keeping watch over their flock by night.
Keeping watch. In darkest night.
Then an angel stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around, and they were terrified.
As are we, in the face of tortured headlines and bloodletting news. As are we, when our own lives detour into tangled wilderness.
But the angel said, “Do not be afraid, for I am bringing good news of great joy for all people.
Oh Messenger of Mercy, draw near to our secret fear with rapturous tidings of release from crushing grief and sorrow’s sovereignty.
Recite anew in our hearing assurance of the Era to come, when each bent bow will relax, every drawn sword will find its rest.
Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation!
Shepherd our hearts to Heaven’s manger-laid love.
©Ken Sehested @ prayerandpolitiks.org. Inspired by Luke 2:8-15 & Lamentations 21:8-9, 14-15.