Angels Unawares

While walking to the car from Blacknall last Sunday morning after worship (rest of the family sick at home), a friend/neighbor said that she and another woman were "praying for our family."  I replied gratefully, but as I continued toward the car I heard myself say to our Father, "I appreciate the praying, Lord.  Would you consider sending an angel too as a personal encouragement?"  Wild.  Where did that thought come from?

A couple hours later as the lunch table was being set - and after I had exploded with helpfulness by baking bread! - I answered a knock on the door to find...

Not one, but three ebony-skinned, female (do angels have genders?) angels awaiting admission: Verna & Jonee Wilson and their friend Ola!!  Wow!   Of course, we invited them to join our ample lunch with baked potato and fresh bread.  Definitely, they picked us up with their delightful and family-like presence.  Thank you, Father.

Not done.  About 6pm that evening another knock on the door revealed Minhua, a student friend, bringing a bouquet of tulips for the patient.  I must have mentioned your mom's upcoming surgery, but for young a Chinese, male to offer such a gesture..!  Did I say, Wow?

Last but not least, Dan & Tanya, having phoned ahead the next afternoon, delivered a very substantial and delicious meal.  I note that this was their own idea; no one had requested such a gesture.

Now it is Thursday.  I am waiting in "pre-op" while your mom falls asleep prior to surgery.  I have not noticed any angels today yet.  Maybe I better look more closely.  Perhaps Adah Joy, beset by respiratory virus too along with everyone but me thus far, sleeping contentedly in my arms between 5:00-6:30am this morning after an early morning coughing spell, is today's angel.  No "perhaps" about it.  She is God's gift today.

So too is the lady at my side.