Maeburl Tincher
Throughout Scripture – and especially at the birth of Jesus – angels have played a unique role in God’s great redemption story. They announced His arrival; ministered to Him in the wilderness; guarded His tomb; and instructed the disciples on how to watch and wait for His return at his ascension.
Angels continue to be part of God’s master plan: not only in the heavenly realms, but in the Earthly one as well.
Hebrews 1:14 tells us that angels are “ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation.” God sends them to assist, protect, guide and deliver messages to the heirs of salvation. Throughout Scripture, we see them answering prayers – such as freeing Peter from prison in Acts 12 – bringing comfort; strengthening Jesus in His trial; and engaging in spiritual protection as God’s provision for His people.
I have spent most of my life as a widow and through the seasons of time, I have personally experienced God’s provision through these special ministers.
On one particular occasion, I was traveling by Amtrak to Warsaw, Ind., to visit a fellowship I had helped established. While changing trains at Union Station in Washington, D.C., I suddenly realized I had left one of my bags in the waiting area.
That satchel contained my money, my identification, my phone, my medication and my train ticket! My heart sank.
It took about 15 minutes to get back to the area. As I walked into the room – expecting the worst – there sat a young man with the most unique countenance, calmly guarding my purse. I shouted praises to God.
He smiled and said, “I knew you’d be back. I took care of it for you.”
I thanked him cordially, gathered my belongings and continued on my way.
As the panic subsided, the reflection of his countenance etched itself into my mind. At that moment, I knew – just as I know now – he had been sent to protect me on my journey to help others.
Angels are not God – and they are not to be worshipped – but they are divinely linked to us in life, ministry and mission. They have their assignment and we have ours.
The greatest gift has been given: and our job is to share the gift of Christmas gift with the world.
Maeburl Tincher writes a monthly column for The Graham Star. She is a native of the Jutts Creek community.