Angels Light the Way

                                            (12/7/15  Angel silhouette appearing on the wall)


Angel messages may appear in surprising ways...ways that touch our hearts at the right moment in the perfect way.  Angels can take the simple things we value to convey a healing, a lightening of the soul.   And when the ordinary objects randomly placed suddenly come to life with celestial hues, the extraordinary comes to light for a moment ushering in strength and encouragement. The best is yet to be.

 

A wonderful memory comes to mind.   In the winter of 2015, while  passing through the dining room to the kitchen, I was taken aback.  The golden rays of a warm afternoon sun had created a living portrait.   The large garden angel statue on the table by the window had somehow reflected the angel's silhouette on the adjacent wall.  It looked to me as though

the angel was presenting a large blooming flower to the Madonna and Child.   

 

I welcomed the angel message on the dining room wall, feeling lighter.  I'd been dealing with a long-term health issue and my faith needed a boost.   In that moment, I realized it was a sign of hope that I too would bloom where I was planted. I was a sacred flower in God's garden, as we are all.  I gained strength to keep on doing my best day by day.  And light was shed that more was going on than I could presently understand.  Here I share a favorite passage on angels. 

 

 ANGELS 

 

 "When angels visit us, we do not hear the rustle of wings, 

nor feel the feathery touch of the breast of  a dove; but we 

know their presence by the love they create in our hearts.  

Oh, may you feel this touch,--it is not the clasping of the hands

 nor a loved person present; it is more than this: 

it is a spiritual idea that lights your path!

 The Psalmist saith:  "He shall give His angels charge over thee."  

God gives you His spiritual ideas, and in turn, they give you daily

 supplies.  Never ask for tomorrow:  it is enough that divine Love 

is an ever present help; and if you wait, never doubting, you will 

have all you need every moment.  What a glorious inheritance is 

given to us through the understanding of omnipresent Love!  

More we cannot ask:  more we do not want:  more we cannot have.  

This sweet assurance is the "Peace, be still" to all human fears, 

to suffering of every sort."    

                                    ~Mary Baker Eddy

  

Saint Francis and the Angel

Saint Francis with an angel playing the violin
by Guercino (1591-1666)

An angel appeared with a blessing for Saint Francis of Assisi holding a violin and a bow.  The angel said he would play for Saint Francis as the angels play before the throne of God.  Then the angel drew the bow across the violin string, making only a single resounding note.  The beloved Saint was filled with such joy by that one sound that had there been any more, his soul would have left his body. 

Many stories surround the life of Saint Francis and his love for animals. Stories about his preaching to the birds or befriending a rabbit, and taming a wolf. 

 Francis had been a rich young man from Assisi who renounced wealth and founded the Franciscan order of friars in 1290.  Saint Francis is known as the patron saint of animals, and praised all creatures as brothers and sisters under God.

Just as Saint Francis was blessed with one musical note from an angel, we, too, can receive blessings from God and so turning bless others. 

Prayer of St. Francis

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love.
Where there is injury, let me sow pardon.
Where there is doubt, let me sow faith.
Where there is despair, let me sow hope.
Where there is darkness, let me sow light.
Where there is sadness, let me sow joy.
O Divine Master, grant that
I may not so much seek
To be consoled as to console.
To be understood as to understand.
To be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive.
It is in the pardoning that we are pardoned.
It is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

 
          --St. Francis of Assisi

Warming Up on Groundhog's Day

 That famous groundhog Punxsutawney Phil has predicted another six weeks of winter.  With recent record-breaking hard-freeze temperatures as far south as Florida, his gloomy forecast was no big surprise.  This morning our two bird baths were frozen solid.  Disks of ice that luckily could be lifted up and tossed down, breaking up like shattered glass. 

During the night, prayers to know that all of God's creatures are sustained by His love brought peace.

This afternoon I happened to look out the window to a heartwarming sight.  My wise little squirrel friend had survived the freezing weather. Upside down, his furry body clung to the sunny-side of the live oak tree.  Soaking up the warmth of the sun's rays...he stayed still in gratitude, thawing out in the Butterfly Marian Garden.   I was happy to see he had survived the long, cold night, along with the sandhill crane couple who showed up early this morning. 

"My heart is beating in the peace

of God.  Surrounding me is all the

life that God created in His love.

It calls to me in every heartbeat

and in every breath, in every action

and in every thought."   

  --A Course in Miracles, Lesson 267

 

  

Fra Giovanni's Letter to a Friend

 

Many years ago, I found this beautiful letter from Fra Giovanni to a despairing friend on Christmas Eve. Although written in A.D. 1513, the message is just as true and much needed today.  

Dear Friend,

I salute you. I am your friend 

and my love for you goes deep.  

There is nothing I can give you 

which you have not; but there is much, 

very much, that while I cannot give it,

 you can take. No heaven can come to us 

unless our hearts find rest in it today. Take heaven! 

 

No peace lies in the future which is not hidden in 

this present little instant. Take peace!

The gloom of the world is but a shadow. 

Behind it yet within our reach is Joy. 

There is radiance and glory in the darkness, 

could we but see; and to see, we have only to look.  

I beseech you to look.

Life is so generous a giver, but we, judging its gifts 

by their covering, cast them away as ugly or heavy 

or hard. Remove the covering and you will find beneath

 it a living splendour, woven of Love, by  wisdom, with Power.

Welcome it, grasp it, and you touch the angel's hand 

that brings it to you. 

 

Everything we call a trial, a sorrow, or a duty; 

believe me that angel's hand is there; the gift is

there and the wonder of an overshadowing Presence. 

Our joys, too, be not content with them as joys. 

They, too, conceal divine gifts.

Life is so full of Meaning and Purpose, 

so full of Beauty...beneath its covering that you 

will find earth but cloaks your heaven.

Courage then, to claim it, that is all!  

But courage you have: and the knowledge 

that we are pilgrims together wending though 

unknown country... Home.

And so, at this time, I greet you: 

not quite as the world sends greetings, 

but with profound esteem, and with the

 prayer that for you, now and forever, 

day breaks and the shadows fly away."

 

 

Prayer for Peace

 

 Prayer for Peace

 

Lead me from death to life

from lies to truth

Lead me from despair to hope

from fear to trust

Lead me from hatred to love

from war to peace

Let peace fill our heart,

our world, our universe...

peace, peace, peace.

                                                                        ~Mother Teresa~

One is Nearer God's Heart in a Garden

 Blending in with the mulch, he sat still watching me...hesitating for the right time to eat from the birdseed platter.  At first, I didn't notice the bright-eyed little squirrel as I sat in the sunny garden. How long had he been watching me, I laughed.  His patient pose on the rose rock, by the sign on drawing nearer to God's heart in a garden, seemed like an angel message.  To spend time in nature and be still.  To take time away from the screen and look and enjoy the beauty of simple things.  

He was so cute I wanted a photo, but the bright sun made it seem impossible.  I could only see the reflection of my squinting eyes in the LCD viewer.  But here's the part you'll like the best.  I asked the angels to please help me...and then did my best to aim the camera and click away.  And, this is what they delivered.  A wonderful reminder that when things seem impossible, ask for divine help and watch for miracles.  Angels are a real, loving presence in our lives.  How blessed are we to ask and to receive their guidance and protection.  

My squirrel visitor sat patiently during the camera shoot.  Afterwards, I spoke softly welcoming him not to be afraid, but come to share in the birdseed.  All are welcome.  And, he gratefully accepted the invitation. God is Love.   

Love and peace,

Rae Karen 

Sing Your Own Song: Angel Message

 

Last week after watching an inspiring old movie on the life of St. Francis, I decided to celebrate the new year in honor of this humble soul who found a kinship with all of God's creations. Every morning I fill our bird feeders, but this year I wanted to do more. To live more humbly, enjoying the mystery and beauty of life around me.   

Much to my surprise, a few days later while resting on our bed after lunch something wonderful happened.  A little gray white-breasted bird peeked in the window at me. Luckily I was facing the garden, and didn't miss out on his rare visitation. What joy to watch him, full of curiosity, hop along the window awning. I smiled and held my breath not wanting to burst the moment. Soon he flew away, leaving me energized with childlike wonder as I thanked St. Francis for the healing. 

Thoughts are things. When we set an intention to share a celebration with life, expect a delivery or confirmation!  

But there was more...

The next day I was resting after lunch, and my feathered friend came by again to check on me, hopping along the window.  Something was up.  Curious I looked on-line to learn more about this angel messenger.  

He's a northern mockingbird, a great singer, the best of the bird flock.  Mockingbirds have an innocent appearance and curious demeanor that encapsulates wonder and naivety. A prompt to maintain an open heart and mind. They like to sing and have bold personalities.  Mockingbirds have the ability to mimic many sounds and other bird songs, but when a one shows up in your life, it's a signal to sing your own sacred song (soul purpose).

I'm so thankful for the wonderful messages the angels bring to us.  A reminder to celebrate union with all life, and to keep our hearts open to singing our song in harmony with the uni-verse.

Love and peace,

Rae Karen  

 

 

 

 

(Ref. photo from web) 

(Animal-Speak ref.) 

You Are a Law Unto Yourself: An Angel Message

   

                       

I'm reminded of a powerful statement: "Declare a thing and it shall be true for you." You are a law unto yourself. 

A powerful decree and a reminder to be a porter at the door of our thoughts we let enter and entertain.  So stand guard and entertain only those that are harmonious and good.  I see how my own thoughts attract my experiences.  If I tell myself that the grocery store will be crowded, the lines long, that's exactly what I get.  

This happened one busy Sunday when I needed to pick up some items at the grocery store for a loved one and began to stress. An "angel thought" reminded me that what I decree will be true for me, so why not expect the best.   Walking into the crowded store, I set an intention that everything would go smoothly. The angels would go before me, making my path straight and clear. It would be a pleasant time, too.  Because I was going to give, (be a blessing to others)  and not to get (personal self-will).  

And, you know, that's exactly what I got. 

  Yes, the store was busy, but there was a peaceful hush as I shopped. I made my way to a cashier, with no waiting in line.  I had other errands to run, and each one was better than the first. People smiled and were loving, sharing a hug and a kind word.  Afterwards, I realized the day was a demonstration of what I declared and expected!  Harmony ruled!

So, whenever I begin to complain that "I HAVE TO" do something, I quickly change my mind and say,"I GET TO" do it.  Grateful that I am willing and able to do so brings joy.  And,  I can even do it in a spirit of grace and loving-kindness as I go about my duties with the loving support of the angels. 

Remember you are never alone.  Your angels abide with you to comfort, guide, and bless, so live in the quiet peaceful expectation of goodness and grace.  And think thoughts as if they are invitations you're sending out to come visit your experience.  The best is yet to be.

Love and peace, 

Rae Karen



(postcard- zazzle)

Bubbles of Clarity: An Angel Message

                               

   
Nothing puts our mind to rest better than clarity.  With understanding, we can see things more clearly, and have more patience that all things are working out in divine order for the highest good of all.  There is a higher harmony that is unfolding.

Years ago, while resting beneath the heavy limb of a favorite hundred-year old camphor tree, I wondered what the angels may have to say about clarity. 

"Deliberateness is the key to steady progress.  Actions focused on results unfold, and goals are reached effortlessly.  The universe knows the talents that you have and the service you need to perform.  But unless you are committed, the energy collapses and dribbles away, no longer cohesive.

Your desires and intents turn the wheels, creating motion, movement forward toward the goal.  Inertia serves no purpose.  To rest in God is to be actively engaged in His Ideas, ready to be made manifest as divine love in the physical realm.

Call eagerly with anticipation of being heard.  Place your order to be in service.  Listen and watch for signs and wonders to appear to direct your path.  Delivery is assured, and then my dear friend, the rest is up to you.  You are the answer to your fondest prayer, when coupled with the power of the Universe."

It's comforting to be reminded that we are encamped by an abundance of loving celestial help. There is no reason to ever get discouraged.  The heavenly angels wait patiently for us to yield to divine wisdom and share our light with the world. 

Remember you are never alone.  God has sent his angels to watch over you.  You are His precious child. God is Love.  The best is yet to be.

 

Love and peaceful, joyful blessings,


Rae Karen

Ticket to Ride: An Angel Message

 

 I wanted to share this spiritual inspiration that came to me this morning:

"Life is like a merry-go-round... Hang on to your horse as the music picks up, and things round about you become a fast blur.  Up and down, round and round, spinning about in a repetitive cycle.  The most important thing to remember is to enjoy the ride as best you can.  Appreciate the simple things in life.  The joys and laughter of good times. The comfort and love offered and shared when not.  The transformation happens within not without on the ride.  All those loved ones who bought our ticket to ride are watching and waving as we pass by on each round.  Make the most of it for the music won't last forever.  Sooner or later the ride is over, and life begins a new.  All is well."

Remember you are never alone.  God has sent his angels to watch over you.  Enjoy the ride.

Love and peace,

Rae Karen 

A Keyhole of Light: An Angel Message

When it seems the darkest, and we can't find our way to the door of FAITH, our Guardian Angel will appear, like a light shining through a keyhole to guide us toward a bright new beginning.  A door will open that will usher in a new dawn of great joy.

I have closed the door on doubt.

I will go by what light I can find,

and hold up my hands 

and reach them out.

              --Irene Pettit McKeehan

Love and joyful blessings,



Rae Karen


(photo: Wikimedia images)

A Little Help from a Friend: An Angel Message

 

This afternoon it seemed like an angel message when new residents appeared in the neighborhood pasture. The black cows were back.  And, I was thankful for a rare photo opportunity when I saw this odd couple.  A little white cattle egret communing with a big black cow.  A picture of friendship as the cow was settling down in a new surrounding. 

The unlikely pair shared a bond that benefits both, similar to the "push me, pull you".  When grazing in the field, the cows stir up the insects hiding in the grass.  Their cowbird companion is ready for a quick and easy meal, and in the process gets rid of any pestilence that would disturb the cows.  Their symbiotic relationship called commensalism means to literally eat at the same table.  What benefits one, benefits the other.   It's a win-win for both.

What a tender scene to watch the cowbird's yellow beak gently peck a bug or two off of his friend's fuzzy black cheek. The two shared a mutual understanding and harmony.       

 If everything you see is here to teach you something in that moment...then maybe my lesson is to remember that we can benefit from having friends that aren't anything like us in appearance, or otherwise. A reminder that when we meet it's not by chance and to trust there's a higher purpose in our interaction.  

Angels are our constant companions, unseen, but not unnoticed.  When an angel draws near you can feel a lightness of being, a fullness that assures you that you are not alone. You can take a breath and release any fear or pestilence that may come from own negative self-talk or whatever may be holding back your peace in the moment.   

Remember you are never alone.  God has given his angels to watch over you.  There is no need to be discouraged...we have unlimited spiritual help...all that is needed is a little willingness to believe and receive. God is Love.

Love and peace,

Rae Karen