Luke 2:8-20 NIV
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
15 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.”
16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
The true story of the shepherds being the first to witness the revelation of Jesus is profoundly symbolic, especially in the context of leadership as portrayed in the Bible. Shepherds are often used as metaphors for godly leaders, highlighting their role in guiding, protecting, and caring for their flock. In this narrative, the shepherds' experience embodies the quintessential traits of spiritual leadership, emphasizing the importance of having a deep and personal revelation of Jesus Christ and God's vision.
Five Reflections for Godly Leaders This Christmas
Humility in Service: Just as the shepherds were humble yet chosen to receive the first revelation of Jesus, leaders must embrace humility. Recognizing that leadership is a divine calling, you should serve with a heart of humility, understanding your role in the larger purpose of God's plan.
Readiness to Receive: The shepherds were ready and receptive to the divine message. Similarly, leaders should cultivate a readiness to receive God's guidance, staying open and attentive to His revelations and directions in your leadership journey.
Courage to Act: Upon receiving the news, the shepherds acted swiftly to see Jesus. Leaders should similarly exhibit courage to act upon divine revelations, stepping out in faith to fulfill the vision entrusted to you.
Sharing the Good News: The shepherds didn't keep the news of Jesus’ birth to themselves; they shared it. Leaders should emulate this trait by spreading the good news and positive messages you receive, inspiring and uplifting others.
Reflecting Christ's Light: As shepherds reflected the light of Christ they witnessed, you should strive to reflect Christ's light in your leadership, embodying His love, wisdom, and compassion in their actions and decisions.
This Christmas, let these reflections guide you to deepen your understanding and relationship with Jesus, fostering a leadership style that aligns with the divine example set by the greatest Shepherd of all.
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Dr. Wanita Mercer, Ph.D. is the founder and CEO of Lead My Heart, an executive coaching and consulting company specializing in equipping executives and executive teams to live and lead with purpose, passion, and power. She has a Ph.D. in Education with an emphasis in organizational leadership, and she is certified in life coaching, executive coaching, change management, project management, executive management, corporate crisis management, and mental health ministry. She has over 15 years of experience as an international educator in the USA and China, motivational speaker, author, and civic leader. She lives in San Antonio, Texas.