Christmas Season · Solemnity of Mary: The Holy Mother of God · Year B
Luke 2:16-21
The Shepherds and the Angels
January 1, 2027
Overview & Insights
“Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened.” (Luke 2:15)
With this scene, the fulfillment of the angel Gabriel’s announcements (1:11–20, 26–37) is complete. Both John and Jesus have been unexpectedly conceived, celebrated in prophetic songs, and born in remarkable circumstances. Each is already revealed as having a central role in God’s plan of salvation, but the angel’s words now emphasize that the good news is centered on the Messiah rather than on his forerunner.
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Commentary
Commentary on Luke 2:15-21 Working Preacher
The exact RCL Name of Jesus commentary on the shepherds and the naming of Jesus on the eighth day.
Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
A Reformed preaching commentary on the shepherds and Mary treasuring these words in her heart.
Luke 2 Commentary: Jesus' Birth and Boyhood Enduring Word · David Guzik
David Guzik's verse-by-verse evangelical commentary on the whole chapter.
Luke 2 Commentary Precept Austin
In-depth study notes, word helps, and cross references on Luke 2.
Luke 2:16 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentaries compiled verse by verse on the shepherds at the manger.
The Octave Day of the Nativity of the Lord, Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God | Loyola Press Sunday Connection Loyola Press · Sunday Connection
A Catholic Sunday Connection reflection and family activities on Mary's yes and the naming of Jesus.
Mary, the Mother of God (Year B), The Mass Readings Explained | Dr. Brant Pitre Catholic Productions · Brant Pitre
Dr. Brant Pitre walks through Numbers 6, Psalm 67, Galatians 4, and Luke 2 for the solemnity.
Mary, Mother of God - Word on Fire Word on Fire · Bishop Barron
A Catholic feast reflection on Mary as Theotokos and the truth of the Incarnation.
God Knows You by Name, Holy Name Day, January 1, 2023 Sermons That Work · Episcopal Church
An Episcopal sermon for Holy Name Day on the meaning of being named and known by God.
Background & Word Study
Luke - Enter the Bible Enter the Bible
Luther Seminary background on the authorship, structure, and themes of Luke's Gospel.
Gospel of Luke Summary | Watch an Overview Video (Part 1) BibleProject
An animated overview tracing the literary design of Luke's opening chapters.
Luke 2:16 Interlinear BibleHub
Greek word-by-word interlinear of the shepherds finding Mary, Joseph, and the child.
The Church Fathers
Questions preachers ask
What do the shepherds do?
They hurry to find Mary, Joseph, and the child in the manger, then return glorifying and praising God; on the eighth day the child is named Jesus, as the angel had said.
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