Did you ever wonder why the shepherds were chosen to be the first to know that Jesus was born? Their duties consisted of much more than minding the sheep. The shepherds protected their flock from predators, and they searched for good grazing grounds and clean water for them. Shepherds knew their sheep. Even when one went missing, they would search diligently until it was found. The shepherd would retrieve each little lost lamb, as it was unable to traverse the rocky terrain alone. 

Luke 2:8 (KJV) says the shepherds were “abiding in the field,” keeping watch over the sheep. “Abide” means to remain or continue to stay. For the shepherds, this meant being vigilant even in the dark of night. God knew those shepherds would be awake, watching over the flock; and if one was lost, they would not give up until the lamb was found. God also knew that these men wouldn’t mind visiting a stable filled with straw and smelly animals. They had to find this Savior whom the angels said would bring peace and goodwill to all! It was only fitting that the shepherds not only found our sacrificial Lamb, but also our Shepherd!