Where have all the angels gone?

I’ve been fascinated by angels for as long as I can remember. Especially during the holiday season, we see many references to angels. I admire their beauty, wisdom, grace, strength, and compassion. I’m awed by their access to God. And of course, I envy the means by which angels are transported swiftly to their next destination—wings. Would you not agree that wings make angels more efficient while doing God’s work? Wouldn’t it be liberating to fly like an angel?

In the Bible, angels are often portrayed as messengers bearing good news. Angels also assist in healing—in delivering God’s light, joy, and peace. Some angels serve as attendants or guardians. Nativity scenes reinforce this perspective, as we witness angels watching over the Holy child. In fact, there are so many biblical references to angels, it’s difficult to imagine that—during those times—a day could go by without running into one. And therein rests the question. If angels were once so commonplace, why don’t we see them now? Where have all the angels gone? It’s an intriguing conundrum.

But allow me to momentarily change course and discuss a different puzzle—the Holy Spirit. You might ask, “John, what does the Holy Spirit have to do with angels?” Please be patient as I try to connect the dots. Though the words might sound familiar, many people are confused by the Holy Spirit. What is it? What is its function? In simple terms, the Holy Spirit is God’s communication link to His children.

In the human experience, we appear to be separated from our Creator. Like the proverbial lamb that wanders from its flock and becomes lost, we have strayed from our true home. We’ve lost touch with our Source. Yet being wholly merciful, God has blessed us by providing a flawless guidance system to ensure a safe return—to help us awaken spiritually and to remember our eternal connection to Him. This is the Holy Spirit’s purpose. This is God’s perfect plan for our salvation. And what is salvation if not the gentle awakening to our immortal reality? It is God’s will that we dwell in Heaven. How is it then possible for our will to be in conflict with His?

Ultimately, the Holy Spirit’s message is always the same. We are counseled to extend unconditional love and forgiveness. His guidance leads to peace. The Holy Spirit speaks in ways which we understand and by means that are not perceived as threatening. His message might be delivered as a thought, an inspiration, a dream, a voice, a vision, an encounter, or an event. Or perhaps an angel will be summoned.

Finally, the dots are connected. Is it possible that angels are the Holy Spirit’s helpers? Could it be that angelic visions are manifestations of Him? While working with their patients, spiritual healers often feel an intense, divine presence. Could this presence be explained by the love of attending angels?

According to Native American wisdom, most people proclaim, “I will believe it when I see it.” But the wise say, “I will see it when I believe it.” Apply this same wisdom to answer the question, “Where have all the angels gone?” Upon doing so, you may come to the same conclusion as I. The angels haven’t gone anywhere. They surround us. Their presence is constant. All we need to do is reach out to them—to simply extend our hand and expect to feel their divine touch. A Course in Miracles reassures us that no call to God can be left unheard or left unanswered.

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

John