4
So Joseph went from the Galilean town of Nazareth up to Bethlehem in Judah, David's town, for the census. As a descendant of David, he had to go there.
5
He went with Mary, his fiancŽe, who was pregnant.
6
While they were there, the time came for her to give birth.
7
She gave birth to a son, her firstborn. She wrapped him in a blanket and laid him in a manger, because there was no room in the hostel.
8
There were sheepherders camping in the neighborhood. They had set night watches over their sheep.
9
Suddenly, God's angel stood among them and God's glory blazed around them. They were terrified.
10
The angel said, "Don't be afraid. I'm here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide:
11
A Savior has just been born in David's town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master.
12
This is what you're to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger."
13
At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God's praises:
14
Glory to God in the heavenly heights, Peace to all men and women on earth who please him.
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.