There are a lot of characters in the nativity that are underrepresented in the whole scheme of things. I’ve said this almost everyday since starting this mini-series of Blogmas and I’ll say it again. Sure, Jesus is the star of the show but can we get a little love for the supporting roles?
Let’s talk about the shepherds. They have no name, no real details given, other than that they are keeping watch over their flocks in the day and in the night. Wanna talk about dedication? Standing outside all night just to watch a bunch of lousy sheep...Why did they do it?
Put simply? They cared. The shepherds cared that the sheep all thrived with no fear of predators. They cared that each and every sheep make it safely to the flock’s next destination. They easily could have just checked out and came back to the sheep in the morning, but they watched diligently both day and night to make sure they were okay. They were persistent and gave careful consideration to the wellbeing of the flock.
What things do you need to be shepherding in your life right now? What parts of your life could use extra tending to or babysitting? Maybe you want to keep a stricter budget and watch over each dollar carefully. For others, it could be prioritizing self care by washing your face twice a day and getting to be early when you need it. It could even be something very small, like folding your towels as soon as you take them out of the dryer (that would be all me…).
We all have things that we wish we cared more about and spend more time focusing on. Just as the shepherds made their sheep their priority, the key is to make whatever you want to focus on your mission. Want to keep track of your spending? Use a budgeting spreadsheet. Want to make sure to get to bed at a good time each night? Set a reminder on your phone. All it takes it small, purposeful actions to keep track of all your sheep.
