Comfort and joy – even in the hardest times

Day 16

Scripture

Luke 2:13-14

Suddenly a great assembly of the heavenly forces was with the angel praising God. They said, “Glory to God in heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors.”

Devotional

It was January 1986. The news we had just received was devastating. The surgery was over, and the diagnosis was Cancer. 

As so very many of you know, hearing those scary words puts you in a very dark place. As Mike, my husband, was in recovery, I sat in the Lutheran Hospital Corridor trying to find a quiet spot, just to be alone. I can only imagine how stunned and extremely sad I must have looked!

I remember my head in my hands, looking down at the floor with tears streaming down my face. So many questions, no answers, and a deep fear of the unknown. I had very little sense of time, place, or anything around me. 

The shepherds in Luke sat in those dark fields at night and never knew exactly what danger awaited them. Their fears were real and I’m sure, at times, overwhelming. 

Scripture tells us they were terrified when a “great company of the heavenly hosts” appeared to them, sharing the wonderful news of the birth of Jesus. 

The story reminds me of that late afternoon in January when I met an Angel. I only remember a man delivering newspapers- no halo, wings, or bright lights, but an Angel, nevertheless. He did not share a flowery speech, only 2 words… 

“Look up” 

and went on his way, saying nothing else. 

It was exactly what God knew I needed to hear! What an amazing reminder that the world and all its worries try to pull us down into the darkness, but we only need to look up. 

Those words have lived in my heart for over 30 years. I never knew the gentleman who spoke them but am so thankful for the message he delivered that day.

Prayer

Dear God, thank you for the angels that you send to us to guide and direct our steps. You always find a way to provide hope and comfort when we need it most. In your name we pray, AMEN

Challenge

Think back to a time when you experienced an “angel-like” encounter. Do you believe there are “Angels among us, sent down to us in our darkest hour?” As the song tells us?

By Melanie Marhenke