March 17, 2008

Do You Believe in Angels?

Luke 22:39-46; Hebrews 1:14

An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.
Luke 22:43

— 

Do you have an angel story?

Some years ago when my wife and I began a new ministry, God did something to encourage us. One morning as I stepped outside my church office for a break, a woman walked up to me and said, “I have a prophecy of the Lord for you.” Somewhat taken aback, I asked her what the prophecy was. Her response was that the Lord would greatly bless our new ministry. I looked away for a moment, and as I began to respond, the person who spoke to me was gone. I do not know who spoke to me, and I have never seen her again. Looking back I believe that God sent an angel to encourage us—and God kept his promise of blessing.

There are many angel stories in the life of Jesus. There were angels at his birth who sang “glory to God” as they announced to shepherds, “A Savior has been born to you” (Luke 2:11, 14).

In the garden of Gethsemane an angel came to encourage Jesus when he wrestled with the Father for a way of redemption other than by the cross.

And when Jesus comes again, he will come “in his glory” with “all the angels” (Matthew 25:31).

You too may have an angel story. But even if you don’t, you may claim the promise that ministering angels have served you.

Loving God, thank you for sending angels to guard and serve us and to minister to us in special circumstances. Help us to see your working in every part of our lives. Amen.

About the author — Jerry Hoytema

Pastor Jerry Hoytema is a retired minister living in Ontario. In his retirement he has served several churches as an interim pastor. He and his wife, Winnie, have four children and 13 grandchildren.

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