Redeemer Reformed Church of Oklahoma City

And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” –Luke 2:8-12

Some commentators have suggested that for there to be shepherds out in the field near Bethlehem watching their flocks by night indicates these were not just any shepherds watching just any sheep. These shepherds were watching sheep all night long to make sure they stayed pure for sacrificial use at the temple. Now this is interesting. If this is the case then these guys were acutely aware of cleanness (required in the sacrifice) and uncleanness (their condition because of their job). They couldn’t ever get purified…perpetual uncleanness.

And who among us doesn’t know of his or her own perpetual uncleanness because of sin! Imagine what good news it was, and not just your garden-variety good news, but good news of great joy, that the Savior was at hand. The One who makes sinners clean has finally arrived. And not only that, but just in case you doubt it, here’s a sign to confirm: he came among the uncleanness of a barn.

And that’s the gospel. Come hear it preached and enacted in the supper with Jesus this fourth Sunday of Advent.

The related hymns we’ll sing are:
Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus
Infant Holy, Infant Lowly
Joy to the World!

Our Community Advent Lunch is this Sunday following the worship service. For more information, click here.

Sunday school for children (in Genesis) and adults (on Reformed theology) is up and running! Coffee and other treats are served at 9:15, teaching begins at 9:30, and we break to get ready for worship at 10:15.

Visitors are always welcome!