the fearless message: shepherds

When Luke told Theophilus that he "carefully investigated everything from the beginning", he began a narrative that would be substantiated by eyewitnesses.  His focus on the shepherds is one for the ages.  These shepherds were doing what they had always done. (Luke 1:1-5). They were faithfully watching over their sheep.  That Angel of the Lord conveyed the fearless message:

9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: 11 Today in the city of David a Savior was born for you, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be the sign for you: You will find a baby wrapped tightly in cloth and lying in a manger.”
It was good news. It was for all people.  The message was specific.  "This will be a sign for you..."
The whole grand narrative is found in (Luke 2:8-20).  The response of the shepherds would foretell the growth of the church to the Gentiles.  The Gospel was truly for everyone.  Praise God!