Look Look Looking

Daniel‘s life was filled with exciting visions of angels and it’s no secret why. The Bible makes it clear that the reason he saw and saw and saw is because he looked and looked and looked (Dan. 7:2,9,13). It says the same thing about Zechariah‘s extended six-chapter-long visionary conversation with an angel. He kept on looking too (Zech. 1:18; 2:1, 5:1).

And in Revelation John said over and over, “I looked and behold…”, “I looked and I saw…”, “I looked and I heard…”(I love the looking and listening going together like that – Rev. 5:11, 8:13).

So while it seems obvious, I don’t think it can be overstated. Taking the time to look is a definite key to seeing! Not just a quick glance, but fixing our spiritual eyes. Gazing intently. Focusing without distraction. That kind of looking.

I don’t see angels all the time, but I do see them whenever I look. I don’t see much in the natural realm with my eyes closed shut either. So in the same way I need to make sure and constantly be praying that the eyes of my heart be wide open and enlightened and looking to see what I can see (Eph. 1:18).

Who Can’t Do This?

My brother Josh’s daughters have both seen angels. And Bekah especially is a totally different kiddo because of it. Before she used to be shy and timid and would sooner sit on the sidelines than go play with other kids on the playground.

Now, she’ll happily join in and make new friends at the park, or visit a new children’s church service – even without her brother and sister. She’s not afraid anymore because she sees that she’s not alone.

You ask her where her guardian angels are and she motions to either side of her. They’re always there, and she can always see them, and that makes all the difference in the world. No fear… a peaceful heart… new confidence. That’s some good fruit! And if it works for seven-year-olds, it can work for anyone.

A Kingdom of Joy

Job 38:7 says angels shouted for joy at creation. And since they’re always in God’s presence (Matt. 18:10), and in His presence is fullness of joy, that would explain why my angels are always in such a good mood. They rejoice over one sinner getting saved, right? And sinners are getting saved all the time around the world.

Point being, I think angels in general, and God specifically, are all a whole lot happier and more fun than we might have figured them to be. They live in heaven, with no tears or sin or sadness. On earth as it is in heaven!

Multiple Personalities

That being said, I do also recognize that God is infinitely creative. So for as many different personalities that people have around the globe, I imagine angels also have an equally diverse range of them as well. Even my angels aren’t the same – definitely two distinct dispositions.

When my dad sees his angel, he is a giant soldier decked out in armor from head to foot. Since Mark means “strong defender” that’s perfect for him. God realizes that for dad, as the ‘fighter for truth’ that he is, a huge valiant warrior angel is what he would want to see. Anything less would be a disappointment!