“…in the presence of the angels I will sing your praise” (Psalm 138:1). of Friday September 29, 2023

When I was baptized, my godfather gave me a gift: M.J. Hummel’s depiction of the guardian angel, which I still have. There’s a deep peacefulness in the painting, showing an angel leading a small child by the hand as they walk together. In their path is a snake, yet neither the angel nor the child seem afraid. Instead, they’re fully attentive to each other’s presence as they move forward.

So many times in Scripture, when angels announce startling news, their message is accompanied by the words, “Don’t be afraid.” May we live conscious of, and grateful for, the presence of these angelic protectors and guides, in whose company we can find our authentic voice and sing God’s praise.