"Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful."
Luke 6:36 (NKJV)The phrase "angels on earth" describes someone who unexpectedly becomes a source of inspiration and support exactly when you need it most. Many of us have met such people at least once in our lives. How wonderful it would be if Christians were known as angelic people on earth. In the film Prayer Box, a thirteen-year-old boy whose little sister is terminally ill cleans his church and quietly answers the requests that people drop in the prayer box, hoping God will notice his sister and heal her. Those on the receiving end never knew where the help came from, yet hope and faith returned to a struggling congregation. The boy's sister did not recover, but he gained a larger, loving family in the church.
As Christ's ambassadors, we can be angelic in the same way when we are observant, friendly, and compassionate. In our neighborhood, classroom, workplace, or church, we can be the person others feel free to approach. Many people are not looking for material help but for someone to talk to in their darkest moment. Some will never come to us, so we must notice them. Where help is within our means, we should give it without waiting to be asked. Where it goes beyond us, we can still connect them to someone who can help. Jesus said, "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful" (Luke 6:36). Put yourself out to be that kind of person, and trust that God notices.
Father, make me observant, approachable, and compassionate. Open my eyes to people who are hurting quietly, and give me the willingness to help even when I am not asked. Let my mercy reflect Yours, so that others see You through me. Amen.