Shepherds probably led a miserable life back in the time of Christ. Unless they loved solitude and animals, and missing out on the life of society, it must not have been their dream job. In this painting, I see three generations of shepherds, a grandfather (left), son (center) and grandson (right). The son has had enough. He has been complaining that it is bad enough being oppressed by the Romans, but even among their brethren, they are marginalized. When was the last time they were invited to a wedding or a bar mitzvah? He not only does not want to pass this life on to his son, but he does not want to do it anymore either. . The grandfather sighs as he has heard this complaint too many times. He tries to console him by reminding him that it does not matter. One day the Messiah will come with Good News for all. The son is about to tell him to live in reality, when a bright light appears in the darkness above them. An angel of the Lord appears in glory giving a personal invitation to meet the long-awaited Messiah. The son falls back in absolute shock and awe. The grandfather is both overjoyed and relieved. The grandson smiles serenely. He had heard both sides of the argument since the time he was a child. He had always secretly sided with his grandfather and knew in his heart he spoke the truth.
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
Luke 2:13