There were shepherds living out in the
fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of
the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around
them, and they were terrified.
But
the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news
that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of
David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.'
'This
will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and
lying in a manger.'
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the
angel, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.'
So
they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was
lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word
concerning what had been told them about this child.
For God so loved the
world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him
should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his
Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world
might be saved through him.