The Apostle Paul once showed what sort of speech is fitting to take place in God’s church as we gather. He said, Speak to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.
John Chrysostom, a Church Father of the fourth century once said that superfluous speech should be avoided as we gather for worship. He said why in a sermon on Hebrews chapter 9, “When you are about to enter the palace of the king, compose your demeanor and your manner. For the angels of the Lord are there since the house of God is full of incorporeal powers.”
As I write we have just concluded our weekend celebration of St. Michael the Archangel. Historically in the church this has been a day to commemorate those incorporeal powers that God has sent to watch over us as his own! Scripture says that angels are among us. This is particularly so as we gather with our God! These incorporeal powers are among us as we join our voices with their heavenly choir.
Hebrews says we have now come to the assembly in heaven, to innumerable angels in the festive gathering! And so it is that we pray together with angels and archangels and all the company of heaven as we laud and magnify his glorious name! The angels of our God are there. What’s more, the Lord himself is among us! We are truly standing on holy ground!
Scripture also tells us that angels are around us personally. The angels are servants of God for all his people in Christ! The book of Hebrews tells us that these angels are ministering spirits sent to give heavenly aid to those who will inherit salvation. These spiritual beings ministered to Christ while tempted for our salvation and now they serve us in matters toward our own salvation! As the psalm reminds us, angels are sent to us to guard us in all our ways.
As God’s children in Christ, we are protected by his messengers. Thanks be to God for his gracious presence. Angels are among us! His angels are around us!
Pastor