he rescue in a time of need and crisis; then they often disappear just as quickly. They come; they disappear, never to be seen again: their home is in heaven, yet their ministry is on earth. Many stories have been told of these spirits who visit us today; some call them reassuring evidence of a loving God, who is always, forever watching over us. The Bible tells that when God has a special work for a person to accomplish, He often sends an angel. The angel may appear in a vision, in waking hours, or as a human (Tada 56). Some accounts have been of flashing lights, voices, or just a touch; while the wings may not be apparent to the eye, they shine with an inner, not outer, glow. Many stories of angel encounters have involved deathbeds, where those keeping vigil see radiance on the face of the dying one. Other stories involve people who have changed an individual’s life or someone who has created an atmosphere of love. In many of the instances one aspect was constant; all stories were unexplainable happenings that left the person puzzled and in awe. Far from being outdated, angels are a part of the present world. The message of the angel is one of peace and love. Angels brought the news of the baby Jesus to the world and told the disciples of the risen Christ. One half of the world’s population wants and chooses to believe in the beauty, awe, and protection these angels, sent by God to watch over His children, can bring into their lives. The angel is not only a part of religion, but also a constant reminder from above that someone, somewhere is watching out for every one of God’s children. Angels come in many different forms, shapes, and sizes; no one person can tell what an angel will look like to another person. The angel may be just a messenger, or may be a friend and companion who lightens a life, yet whatever they may be, one thing holds true…angels are present in the hearts and minds of many. ...
