Tips for Telling

Think about it

Before telling this story, take a moment and think about what common things these humble men were probably concerned with: watching over their flocks against thieves and wild animals in the cold night air, the need for warmth, food, and a little diversion to ease their humdrum life of drudgery. Little did they know that they were about to become a part of the most miraculous event since creation, the birth of the Messiah.

Give the three shepherds different voices so your audience will know who is speaking. Using a goofy voice to the third can provide comic relief. As you tell, let the feel of their simple conversation stand in stark contrast to the angel's announcement and subsequent heavenly choir. It may be that these men nearly died from the shock and awe. Let that majesty of God come through in your tone and on your face as they look at each other just before going to town.