As a child growing up in north Alabama, I was definitely a fan of the country group that bore the name of my state. There were so many great songs that stick out in my mind, all bringing memories of riding in the car with my dad. One of their Christmas songs, "Christmas in Dixie," is one I can sing along with every word, every note!

 

Alabama has another Christmas song entitled "Angels Among Us" that has been on my mind a good bit over the past few weeks. The chorus of this song says:

 

"Oh I believe there are angels among us

Sent down to us from somewhere up above

They come to you and me in our darkest hours

To show us how to live to teach us how to give

To guide us with the light of love"

 

 

While I don't take my theology from country songs, I do think the culture around us should help us think on the things of God. Every part of our lives should be evaluated through the Word of God (and what better way to begin doing so than by the music we listen to). As I preach from Hebrews on Sunday mornings, I am reminded of the reality of angelic beings.

 

The author of Hebrews reminds us at the end of the first chapter that angels are "ministering spirits send out to serve those who are going to inherit salvation…" (Heb. 1:14) I believe many people get this confused with a guardian angel. While the Bible tells us of their work, it does not necessarily mean they are our guardians in life. In Scripture, we see angels deliver God's message, protect God's people, and even bring God's deliverance. Angels do not, however, reflect the image of God - only humans do that.

 

I am very much intrigued by the study of angels and look forward to studying them more. If you are interested in studying along with me, join me Wednesday nights at 6:00 pm in our fellowship hall.  I hope to see you there!