It was my observation when collecting intel on Angelic Operations that a singular impact of their effort appears often – comfort. God reigns in heaven surrounded by a heavenly host of angels. In 1 Kings we read – I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, with all the host of heaven standing beside him to the right and to the left of him (1 Kings 22:19). Angels are always looking after us. Moses says — Behold, I send an angel before you to guard you on the way and to bring you to the place that I have prepared (Exodus 23:20). They clear the path for our progress so we can serve God unfettered by troubles.

Angels are messengers of God; they reinforce his active presence in our world, they add credence to God’s justice, love, comfort, and protection. God’s love is revealed as angels announce the ministry of grace conducted by Jesus. Angels announced the birth of Ishmael (see Genesis 16:11) and Samson (see Judges 13:3-5). Angels announced the birth of John the Baptist (see Luke 1:19), the birth of Jesus (see Luke 1:26), and Jesus’ resurrection (see Matthew 28:5). David says — The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him and rescues them (Psalms 34:7). This is comfort.

We should not overlook the angels who conduct operations to implement God’s justice. For example, angels inflict punishment upon the Assyrians who seek to invade Jerusalem (see 2 Kings 19:35). Notice that seven angels pour out the overwhelming wrath of God upon the wicked of the earth in the Book of Revelation (see Revelations 16). This is power.

Luke tells us — In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, (a town in Galilee), to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The Virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, greetings, you who are highly favored! God is with you. (implied from Luke 1:26-28). Angels deliver the affirmation of God’s good favor to earth. This is assurance.

An angel stops Abraham from sacrificing Isaac (see Genesis 22:11); protects Jacob from harm (see Genesis 48:16); shields Israel from the Egyptians at the Red Sea (see Exodus 14:19). An angel warns Joseph to flee to Egypt (see Matthew 2:13); comforts Jesus on the Mount of Olives (see Luke 22:43); and releases Peter from prison (see Acts 12:7). Because angels often implement God’s protection, we can get the feeling that each person has an angel standing watch over them, protecting them. The Psalmist tells us – God will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone (Psalms 91:11-12). This is protection.

Jesus tells his disciples – Take care that you do not despise one of these little ones; for, I tell you, in heaven their angels continually see the face of my Father in heaven (Matthew 18:10). I don’t think this protection means only sunny skies for us, I think it means that God places boundaries on what we are asked to endure, the angels are part of the enforcement plan for the boundaries. This is protection. Angels have the power to act, provide assurance, and deliver protection – this is comfort.

Thomas Binney the poet said – Eternal Light, Eternal Light, how pure the soul must be. When placed within thy searching sight, it shrinks not but with calm delight, can live and look on Thee, the [angels] that surround thy throne can bear the [holy] bliss. … But how can I … whose mind is dim, appear before the Ineffable [indescribable majesty]? How shall I … whose mind is dim, appear before the Ineffable?

From the poetry of Thomas, we obtain glimpse of the angelic host surrounding the throne who sing Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord God Almighty. I think it is safe to say — angels walk ‘lockstep’ with God’s will. This is comfort; I look forward to joining them in song and walking in their footsteps on the streets of gold.

I choose Jesus.