Angels

Matthew 18:10   Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.

It's amazing how new the scriptures are every time I read them.  I have read the book of Matthew multiple times in my life.  And yet I have never caught the significance of this passage before.  Jesus is talking about little children, and what a beautiful, tender principle he teaches.  My interpretation of this is that not only do little children have their very own angel watching over them, but these angels have a direct line to Father in Heaven.  When a little child is in need, their angel gets a priority "face to face" communication with God.  I read this passage a couple of days ago and was almost floored by the simplicity and, at least to me, the intuitiveness of the message here.  Of course little children have an angel watching over them.  Of all people, who is more deserving, innocent and pure than a child? 

As I've pondered this, I've begun to wonder what Sophi's angel is reporting to the Father in those face to face meetings?  How about Elli's.  What kind of grades am I earning on my eternal report card?  Earlier in the same chapter, the Savior warns of the grave consequences for one who offends a child.  Dictionary.com defines offend as, "cause to feel upset, annoyed or resentful."  Hmmmmmm.  Have any of my children ever been annoyed with me?  Resentful or upset?  Certainly part of being a parent is making decisions that children, with their limited wisdom and experience, are not very happy with.  But there are surely many ways that I could improve my interactions with my kids.  Be more patient and loving more of the time.  Don't let my tiredness or stress make me lose sight of the beautiful everyday moments that occur during bedtime rituals, family meals or other times spent together.

I'm so grateful for the Bible, particularly the four Gospels.  The beautiful counsel given by the Savior is such an incredible guide for life.  And I am convinced that the closer I grow to Him, the better will be the reports given to the Father by the angels watching over my beautiful children.

Jeremy