A Heavenly Encounter...

I know this may sound silly, but I forgot just how often angels show up in the story of Jesus’ birth. Mary and Joseph each got their own visit, now a group of shepherds are going to get their turn and not just from one angel, but a whole multitude!

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And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

“Glory to God in the highest heaven,

and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Luke 2: 8- 14

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Tomorrow we’re going to take a look at the shepherds, today I want to talk about the angels. I was being serious before when I said I didn’t realize how often they show up in this section of scripture. They are very present and everyone seems to have the same reaction - awe and fear.

I think one of the things I find the most interesting is that the scripture does not convey to us that they find it odd/unheard of for angels to appear. I mean sure, they are shocked that the angel appeared to them, but not of the existence of angels. Maybe I’ve been jaded by too many movies or plays. I think I had classified angels in my head as imaginary creatures, right alongside unicorns and Nessie, if I’m being honest.

I know we often hear the scripture about entertaining angels unaware, but in those cases the angels would look like you and me, not distinguishable enough for us to know that they were angels. Were here, no matter their appearance, everyone is clear they are seeing an angel.

I think today’s scripture really helped me see how I have let the wonder of it all slip away. How I’ve let the world influence my view of unworldly things.

How would you react if someone told you they got a visit from an angel?

How would you react if you received a visit?

Just a little something to think about.

To Everything There Is A Season…

Kiley Ann