Bartolome Murillo is a famous Spanish painter of the "golden age". One of the greatest religious painters. Murillo created a huge number of genre scenes based on biblical motives, conveying the national flavor of Spain with a special lyricism.

Murillo has always remained the most mysterious, and therefore the least studied artist. He often did not date his works; very little is known about his life. There are over 450 of all works by Murillo on religious themes.

In Murillo's paintings, religious scenes are presented as events from ordinary folk life.

The painting "Adoration of the Shepherds" was painted in about 1668, its dimensions are 1.47 by 2.18 at this time, the painting is in the Wallace Collection art museum, London.

Let's read the gospel event recorded here. Luke 2: 8-20

Before the young pretty Mary, tenderly looking at the baby Jesus lying in the manger, there are simple peasants who brought their meager gifts.

This kneeling old man, timidly raised his hands, but did not dare to touch the baby. Notice the look of delight and awe on the faces of these simple, poor shepherds.

Murillo is considered one of the most talented exponents of moods. We have just read, these simple shepherds have witnessed extraordinary events. The angel said to them: I proclaim to you great joy that will be to all people - they were the first to know the wonderful news - great joy, because the Savior was born for all people.

The angel not only said good news, but also said the exact place where they could meet with the Born Savior - here's a sign for you: a Baby lying in a manger.

They were honored to listen to a concert of extraterrestrial praise - Glory to God in the highest, and peace on earth! -Even when they came here to a humble cave, they continued to see that radiance and praise of the angels.

Could these common people remain indifferent? - no, the evangelist says: they said to each other: let's go to Bethlehem and see what happened there, as the Lord announced to us. And, hurrying, they came and found it.

In front of the manger, we see a lamb with its legs bound, symbolizing the sacrificial lamb. Perhaps it was a gift from the shepherds, but they did not know that God had prepared His gift - a Lamb who would take away the sin of the world.

Dear friend, how do you react today to the joy of the Savior's birth? Will you say together with the shepherds and millions of Christians - let's go and see, or will you remain indifferent? Will you thank God for all that you have heard and seen?

God bless you

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