Christmas & Angels – History & Meaning of An Angelic Secret Service!

Angels play an important role in Christmas celebrations. The word, "Angel" is derived from the Hebrew and Greek words which simply means "messenger". Angels are depicted as immortal, human like in appearance, transparent with wings who live in the heavens, come to us as the intermediaries of a higher power and are our link to the mystical heavens!

An Angel is a common symbol placed on the top of the Christmas tree today. Gabriel is the heavenly Angel of Christmas who revealed to Mary that she would have a son “God”. A Christian story tells of a small group of tiny Angels on a special assignment to watch over and guide Mary and Jesus on their journey to Bethlehem. They sang songs of thanksgiving believed to be heard at all four corners of the earth. Today the hymn “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” is played in all church choirs during the Christmas season. After Jesus was born in Bethlehem an Angel of Christmas appeared to the shepherds telling them of the Christ Childs birth. Angels in Christianity rapidly evolved in popularity during 1100 AD to 1200 AD. The teachings of Saint Thomas Aquinas is believed to have had the most importance regarding the evolution of Angels.

The concept of “Angels” as spiritual or heavenly beings is evidenced in almost all cultures on earth. Archaeological evidence of Angels dates back to King Stela of Ur-Nammus in Egypt 2250 BC where Angels are depicted flying over the head of this king while he was in prayer. However there are numerous and many accounts of Angels throughout history. Here are some references:

- The Romans and Greeks have many references in their history of Angels especially as winged cherub sculptures seen on buildings and fountains.

- There is a popular belief that the Roman Saint Valentine inspired the figure of “Cupid” a winged cherub (usually a child-like image, curly hair, small wings behind their shoulders, some clothed and others unclothed and usually portrayed in flight) who shoots arrows at lovers. This is a popular Angel image associated with Valentines Day today.

- Islam (Koran) – Angels are mentioned many times in the Holy Qur'an (Koran) which was dictated to the Prophet Muhammad by the Angel Gabriel, the “Divine Messenger”. There is a belief that everyone has two Angels (one to the right who records good deeds and one to the left who records bad deeds).

- Hebrews (Torah) – the belief in four Archangels (Michael, Gabriel, Raphael and Uriel).

- The Bible – says that the Angels were singing at the creation of the world. The New Testament says that the Angels rejoice when people on earth are sorry for their sins! There are countless references to Angels in the Bible with nine ranks of Angels counted. The Cherubim and Seraphim Angels being of the highest order with the Archangel being the chief Angel and leader.

Angels are spiritual beings often seen strumming harps and floating on clouds! While most references to Angels are with two wings The Bible makes mention of Angels with 2 sets of wings (Cherubs) and up to six wings (Seraphim). Christians believe everyone has a guardian Angel who watches over them. The scriptures reference Angels as masculine. It also references good and bad Angels. Christians believe all humans have a Guardian Angel they can call upon at anytime for protection and guidance.

Here are some creative responses to the existence of Christmas Angels and their activity today:

- They are watching every activity and wanting to awaken us to improve our conduct and thus avoid being on the “naughty” list!

- Christmas Angels are there to remind us of our spiritual realm. That there is more to us than what we merely gauge with our five senses. We have a depth and ability beyond what we currently recognize and thus we need to develop our connection with higher power.

- They are there to remind us to seek the best in ourselves at all times no matter who is watching or not watching. Integrity is a virtue they wish to remind us to practice at all times!

- To remind us of powerful, unseen agents all around us that are there to protect us and help in times of need through the power of healing prayer.

- They act as role models to help and give to others. They constantly are reminders to help and give without expectation of anything in return.

- They remind us to “lighten up” in our lives and have a little fun! They know that families who laugh together stay together! Laughter is healing and those Christmas Angels love to see the lighter side of life!

So no matter whether you believe or not believe in Angels, they certainly add to the magic, fun and joy associated with the celebrations and festivities of Christmas.

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