Hark! The herald angels sing
Glory to the new born king.
Peace on earth, and mercy mild
God and sinners reconciled.
Charles Wesley (1707-88)
Angels are around every corner at Christmas. No nativity play is complete without several. In our homes and shopping centres they are to be found atop Christmas trees. On the cards we send to friends and family artistic representations of these elusive beings remain popular. Gabriel and the heavenly choir feature in carols and songs. It just wouldn't be Christmas without them.
Christian tradition tells of angels appearing to both Mary and Joseph before the birth of Jesus. Shepherds on the hills near Bethlehem were startled by a massed choir of angels soon after the event. As heavenly beings the angels in the Christmas story acted as intermediaries between God and humanity. Those who encountered them were initially disturbed but ultimately encouraged by the message delivered.
Christmas angels speak of good news and invite humanity to be part of the new work that is about to begin. Centuries later their words are repeated and the invitation to be part of the story is extended afresh to each new generation.
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