This sermon is most effectively presented in a dramatic form. You may want to verbally introduce the setting before using the actual text - announcing that you are back in Bethlehem on that Night. As you act out the directions, you will capture your listeners’ attention and add a great deal of impact to the words.

What strange news has greeted me this night! Shepherds in the fields near Bethlehem claim that in the night watches an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them as the angel said:

Do not be afraid; for behold, I am bringing you joyous tidings which are being revealed to all peoples; for unto you is born today in the city of David - Bethlehem - a Savior who is the Messiah, Jehovah God himself, God with us. And this is how you shall know him: y…