Luke 2:8-15 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 Saviour 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 2:8-15 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.” 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.”

Leader: Jesus Christ, we proclaim today that you are the grace of God who has appeared bringing salvation to all people. As we wait for Christmas we believe that you are the God who loves us and who desires good for us. Response: For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.

Leader: As we consider the Shepherds today we recognize that sometimes it is easy to be afraid. When we are afraid help us to find joy in your good news. Response: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”

Leader: As we light this candle today we are reminded that Jesus is the light of the world and that through Jesus light is coming into the world. As we wait for Christmas may we see your light more and more every day. Response: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. In him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.

Leader: Jesus Christ, light of the world, we wait for you Leader: Jesus Christ, light of the world, we wait for you. And as we wait we remember that your grace means our fear is replaced with good news.