Reflection: Angel-guarded

“He’s ordered (and experienced) perpetual angel-guard. So attentive is their care that, no matter what, we won’t trip or come to harm.” 

(Author’s paraphrase of Psalm 91:11-13, through New Testament eyes) 

Angels are no strangers to Satan (though, as a fallen angel/prince of demons we can’t be sure exactly what that looks like). 

In fact, it’s Psalm 91 that the Devil quotes when tempting Jesus on the temple tower: “Throw yourself down. Don’t worry, angels will catch you.” (Matthew 4:5-6)  

Angels are no strangers to Jesus either … but he doesn’t take Satan’s bait. Ironically, when the Devil gives up on his evil shenanigans, God’s messenger-angels do come to Jesus, to ‘catch’ him—to lift him up, comfort and care for him.  

There’s another oh, so tender moment, when God sends angel-comfort to his son:  

It’s dark. (Think battle between darkness and light.)  

It’s the usual place where Jesus goes to pray. (Think battleground.)  

There’s blood-sweat and tears. (Think battle between every-bit-human but divine.)  

Rote prayer is on Jesus’ lips. (Think acute anguish — the kind when few words will do, when memorised words suffice.) “… your will be done.”  

This is a poignant moment.  

This is when The Father has a special assignment for a special-agent angel:  

Go! (Google maps: Mount of Olives) My son is crying. 

Angels are no strangers to Jesus. To further underline the fact Matthew records the interchange that follows at that Gethsemane address: Roman guards surround Jesus and Peter slashes off a random ear in fear. 

“Put away your sword Peter. You know I could call on my Father and he would immediately bid dozens of angel-army guards.” (Matthew 26:52-53) 

Prayer:

I want to live conscious of your angel-guard, Father.  

Conscious of legions of angels intervening around the world to do their master’s bidding.  

Conscious of and deeply comforted by the grand scheme of your armies of power over evil.  

Conscious of and buoyed by your attentive care — the safe-keeping of those who trust in you.  

Send your comforting angels to ‘lift up’ those whose body, spirits, faith or resolve are wavering. 

Please send your comforting angels today, to _____________.