Following the footsteps of the shepherds Luke 2:8-20 (Preached in Tavistock FPC) 24 years ago, I had the privilege of standing looking over the fields where it is believed the shepherds watched their flocks on the night the Saviour was born. Given the celebrations and the noise the world is making about the birth of Christ at this time of the year, it is appropriate that we consider what the Bible has to say about that wonderful event. The air is filled with myths and fancies which bear no resemblance to the Bible's record on our Saviour's first advent. Let us fill our minds afresh with the story of Bethlehem and so safeguard ourselves from the deceptions which men embrace so heartily. The shepherds were the first to see the Lord Jesus apart from Mary and Joseph. The words spoken to the shepherds by the angel are a model for all preachers to bear in mind when proclaiming the good news of the gospel. The shepherds also provide us with an example of obedience which we should follow.