Shepherds and the Inclusion and Exclusion of the Christmas Story

In Biblical times, Shepherds were the outcasts of society. They were poor, smelly, dirty, and often thought of as unholy. The first announcement of Jesus' birth is made to those outside social norms because the gospel is "good news, of great joy, for all people." If you have ever felt left out or uncared for... The message from the angels to the shepherds is for you.