My first Sunday in the pulpit at Country Club Christian Church was Jan. 19, 2003. That day I woke early, made coffee and sat down to review my sermon. It was titled, “When You See the Angels You’ll Know Why You Believe.” I thought the sermon was pretty good but I noticed as I read through it my hands were shaking. I took a break from the review and tried to pour a cup of coffee but it spilled out onto the counter.
My wife, Julie, came downstairs a few minutes later. I had given up on the coffee and was back at my desk going over my notes. She could tell something was off in my soul. She sat down next to me, took a hold of my trembling hand and said, “You’ll be fine and even if you really mess up remember I still love you!”
I said, “Uhh, thank you, I guess!”
There is something about an honest and loving word that can give us the strength to get through even the toughest of times. My nerves finally calmed down on that first Sunday. I knew, I really knew that Julie had spoken the truth. No matter what transpired she was going to be there at the end of the day. Our love did not depend on me preaching a good sermon. (Thank God for this truth!)
In the Bible an angel is a messenger of God. The Greek word anngelos means messenger or delegate. We tend to think of angels as some sort of heavenly beings with wings and halos. In reality, you and I are called to be anngelos, angels, God’s messengers. Every time we share our love with another, any moment we give our hearts to one we care for or speak out in the name of grace, we are acting as heavenly delegates sent to a world that is often trembling in fear.
So, go ahead, make someone’s day, let them know you love them. You can pick up your wings and halo later!
Grace and peace to you.
Note: The sermon title was inspired by How Can It Be All Right When Everything Is All Wrong by Lewis B. Smedes.
