On the night Jesus was born, shepherds were watching over their flocks in the fields near Bethlehem. It was an ordinary night until suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared before them, and the glory of God shone all around. The shepherds were terrified.

But the angel said, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy for all people. Today, in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord. This will be the sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Suddenly, the sky was filled with a vast multitude of heavenly angels praising God and proclaiming:

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favour rests.”

As quickly as they had appeared, the angels departed, and the night became still once more.

The shepherds said to one another, “Let us go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” Leaving their flocks, they hurried to the town and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby Jesus lying in a manger, just as the angel had said.

Filled with wonder, they told everyone what they had seen and heard. All who listened were amazed, while Mary treasured these things and pondered them in her heart.

The shepherds then returned to their fields, glorifying and praising God for everything they had witnessed. The night had begun like any other, but it ended with the joyful news that the Savior of the world had come.