Pause with me to imagine that first Christmas night. Shepherds startled in the fields by angels declaring peace on earth. A baby, sleeping quietly, carrying the weight of God’s promise never to stop pursuing us. Joseph and Mary wondering at God's redirection of their lives.

A shepherd pauses to listen intently for any strange sounds coming from the pasture. Slowly, he scans the far edges of the field for dangers lurking in the darkness. He’s not frightened; being a watchman is a normal part of protecting the flock. But tonight is not a normal night