Songs of Shepherds

“Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night.”—Luke 2:8

Joseph Canteloube was inspired by the people and landscape of his native land in France. Even as a child, he began collecting folk songs. Everyone seemed to sing. In particular, he noted the shepherds who sang in the pastures. Their songs became the foundation for many of his own compositions.

Canteloube was able to observe what people throughout time commonly knew—that shepherds spending long hours isolated in their fields often passed the time of day by singing. Many of their songs were passed down from generation to generation. We can imagine how the shepherds outside Bethlehem shared this lifestyle.

They must have been startled by the visiting angels. The messages brought to them by Gabriel and the angelic choir penetrated the dark night with a melody and message that were of a different dimension.

The shepherds listened and were changed. This was not music just to pass the time but music of an eternal dimension. The words sung were an amazing message of deep revelation that came from God. The music was rich with overwhelming praise. This music demanded a response and would be remembered for countless generations.

The world is full of music—some intense, some serene, some fast, some slow. As those shepherds near Bethlehem learned, God can use music to convey His messages. May we be listening carefully, asking Him for the sensitivity to listen well.

Reflection Question: What is your favorite Christmas carol and why?