When I was a little girl, I could not figure out what all the hoopla was about Santa Claus. As a child I loved the romance and danger of the ancient story of Joseph
and Mary.
I was intrigued by the wonderful announcement of the singing angels to the shepherds and the tiny
baby miraculously conceived. Then there were wise men who followed a
shining star to where the child lived. They brought him wonderful exotic
gifts.
There was even a jealous, deceitful king who sought after the child's
life--yet miraculously, through the intervention of angels, the family
escaped certain death.
I am still filled with awe and wonder as I consider the mystery and beauty of that wonderful old story.
Merry Christmas sweet Friends. May the beauty and mystery of the season
fill your hearts with joy!
This Angel Story was sent by my delightful Sister Clytie. Here is the story in her own words.
When I was first married, I drove a 1972 Datsun 2000 Roadster hard-top convertible. I rarely drove with the top down, because it entailed a great deal of work to get it off and stored. One of the hinges actually had to be removed with a crowbar, although the other side was so loose, it would sometimes fall down at odd times, with a loud "BAM!"
I frequently drove to Pendleton, Oregon, to visit my husband's grandparents - a four hour trip. On one occasion I was traveling by myself through the Columbia Gorge, my little car fully loaded for the weekend trip. I was tired, and the trip was long and boring, with no stereo or radio to divert my attention...
Suddenly, a loud "BAM!"
I woke up, realizing I had drifted off to sleep and was swiftly heading toward a very steep embankment, a vertical rock wall in front of me! I was shocked awake and shakily headed my little car back to the highway. I took the next exit and sat for a while.
Only after I had calmed down did I think to fix the hinge that woke me up. But it was already hitched!!! Astonished I looked at the other hinge - the one I needed a crowbar to undo, and there it was, hanging down ... undone. I had to use all of my force to push it closed again!
How did this happen?I can only imagine an angel saw me falling asleep and flicked the hinge with an agitated finger to wake me up. I don't have any other explanation. In the entire time we owned the car the hinge on that side, only fell down that one time.
I, for one, am deeply grateful to God for His protection of my sister as she drove that lonely road. I think about what my life would be without Clytie in it, and I am bereft. There is something so wonderful and beautiful about the sweet relationship between sisters.
Dad had just passed away. Mumsie was standing in the kitchen weeping into the sudsy water of the sink as she washed the dishes. She was filled with sadness and dark despair.
As she tells it, "I was in the kitchen doing the dishes, when suddenly I heard a HUGE voice saying my name, "EVA!"
I whirled around to see a giant angel standing behind me. He wore orange and deep grey robes. On his head was a helmet and in his hands he held a great sword. He was enormous, at least twelve feet tall.
"When I looked up into his eyes, he smiled a sweet, crooked smile. Then he faded from my eyes. Fear flew away and my heart was suddenly peaceful. I knew that angel had been sent by God to strengthen me in my time of sorrow. I am so thankful for God's gift of comfort."
Sometimes we are allowed to see those whom God has sent to watch over us.When we are given that opportunity, it is a moment of unspeakable joy and surprise!
Dear Friends, no matter what terrible burden, or unmanageable situation you are facing just now, you are not alone. The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.
~ Psalm 34:7
