Dramas like Touched by An Angel and Joan of Arcadia brought to light the concept of guardian angels. From 1993 to 2004, Hollywood used Monica, Tess and Andrew to portray what it would be like to encounter one of God’s servants. As one show faded, another took its place in prime time, inspired by the song What if God was One of Us? Airing from 2003-2005, Joan of Arcadia gave teenagers a glimpse of how obeying God’s advice could impact the lives of an entire community.
The Bible introduces readers to a promised angel in Exodus 23:20-33. According to Moses, God’s plan included a guardian angel for the nation of Israel. The purpose of this heavenly visitor was to guide God’s people toward the promised land. However, like anything else in life, freewill is in play, allowing individuals to choose to listen or disregard this angel’s directions. It’s no wonder that Israel took 40 years to make it to a land flowing with milk and honey. Taking God’s messenger seriously may have cut their time in half or possibly reduced their journey to 1 month, if only they had believed and obeyed.
While angelic stories continue today, Jesus promised to send a mighty counselor to earth after his ascension into heaven, John 16:5-15, known as the Holy Ghost. Following Pentecost in Acts 2, an angel freed Peter from prison like a scene from a modern movie in Acts 12:5-14. Unfortunately, faith is wavering today as unbelief has caused many to doubt God has the power to repeat history by ushering angels onto the scene and into our lives. May the Spirit of Christmas transform your soul, helping you realize the wonderful life you have thereby embracing the angel by your side.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 