One Christmas, I realized that I had received enough “angels” gifts over the years to qualify as a collection. Now, each December, my “heavenly host” congregate on a ledge by the stairs. They are a curious crew, made of crystal, plastic, ceramic, and cloth, some delicate and fragile, some large and imposing (my favorite is the toilet-paper roll cherub with the curly hair and big smile, made by one of my daughters in her toilet-paper roll-craft years).

At Christmas, angels get a lot of face time in ornaments, lapel pins, songs, and holiday specials. Yet, isn’t it intriguing to think of them and the tasks they have and will perform? What was it like to guard Eden after the fall, or give that amazing news to Mary, or communicate to Joseph in a dream, or roll the stone from the tomb, or be part of an answered prayer? Then another fascinating thought—that besides serving God, and though elevated above man, they are created to serve those who will inherit salvation, but will never receive it themselves.

This Christmas, I want the angel collection to remind me of God’s unspeakable Gift of His Son, and of Jesus’ gift of salvation. And, because of what He has given me, I want my life to glorify Him far more than any angel could.

Hebrews 1:6-8

O come, let us adore Him
Christ, the Lord