There were shepherds abiding in the field,
keeping watch over their flocks by night.
Luke 2:8

These were shepherds doing their job, protecting their flocks, tending to the sheeps’ well being and safety, making sure they were all accounted for.  It is what good shepherds do best: keep watch even when it may be hazardous, especially when there is cover of darkness to conceal potential danger.   These simple people stayed vigilant and,  as a result,  did not miss heaven’s grandest announcement.   They were ready.

Over three decades later, a small group of disciples,  shepherds of a different type of flock,  were asked to keep watch one night in a garden of olive trees.  They were to stay awake on behalf of the Lamb,  but, in their weakness, could not even manage to do that.  Instead they slept,  untroubled and oblivious.

Now thousands of years later I sleep fitfully, knowing I too must keep watch, even if I am afraid of the dark, even if I’m tired and would rather sleep, even if I’m certain I’m not the one meant for the job.

It is not up to me to decide.

I will keep watch and be ready when the heavens sing.