His Protection

Daily Devotional - 24 August 2020

“Therefore, angels are only servants—spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation” (Hebrews 1:14).
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In the beginning of the letter of Hebrews, the writer begins by comparing the infinite greatness of Christ as God to that of God’s servants, the angels. There is no comparison really. While Jesus was invited to sit and rule at God the Father’s right hand, the angels are constantly at God’s command, ready to obey. They do not resent their position, but are ready to serve. And I am so glad for that! I am not always cognizant of the fact that God’s angels are providing support and protection as instructed by God, but there are times I am reminded...this morning was one of those times.

Before coming into the church, I had to make a run over to a neighbouring town. On my way back, I was witness to an incident that took place on the roadway that could have had far different outcomes than what I witnessed. I was following a transport that was loaded down with wood. As I followed, I noticed the driver quickly tap on the brakes a couple of times, then signal to pass a truck it was following and move into the oncoming traffic’s lane. I remember immediately being surprised that the way was clear for a vehicle to pass another–the stretch of road we were on is busy enough going both ways, that passing isn’t usually an option. I quickly realized, however, in the next seconds, that this time was in fact no different.

I have no idea what was going through the mind of the trucker who had decided to choose this moment to make a pass by going into the opposing traffic’s lane. Maybe he wasn’t paying close attention. Maybe his brakes weren’t working properly. I really don’t know, but it was quickly obvious he had not chosen a good time to pass. While his transport took up the lane of the oncoming traffic, I saw no less than three vehicles forced to quickly move out of their lane and onto the gravel in order to avoid a collision. The driver being passed, realizing the danger, also pulled out of his lane and onto the gravel. Everyone on either side of the road, recognizing the imminent danger, slowed right down myself included.

In this particular incident I was able to shake my head. So many lives had needlessly been put at risk because of one person’s very poor decision. Thankfully, everyone was able to get out of the way in time and though some may have been quite shaken by the incident, we all were able to continue on our way. Some having witnessed this event may have been quick to thank their lucky stars, karma or coincidence. I am far more inclined to thank God and the angels He sent to intervene and protect us all from what could have been a tragedy.
~ Pastor Jane