On a Sunday evening, angels gathered round, playing harps and trumpets, filling the air with beautiful music. They knew that a special angel was about to return, having completed his mission. His father and grandmother, who had gone before him, were excitedly preparing to welcome him. Many others were waiting to guide him along a path as bright as the sun.

When Michael saw the Lord with arms wide open, he ran joyfully into His embrace, beaming with a radiant smile. Then he turned to us and said, “Don’t cry for me. I’ve finally come home. Just as I am, I am complete. Just like this, I am happy.”

Though our hearts ache with sorrow at Michael’s departure, we are wrapped in deep peace, knowing that this special angel is watching over us.

This message was shared at the funeral by his sister, Katy, who received it in a moment of deep inspiration on the evening Michael passed away. Michael, 55 years old, had never lived independently as a human being. As the only son among four daughters, he had spent his life in hospitals, special schools, and care facilities. He was always under the protection of others. He brought tears to his parents and family, often leaving emotional wounds and pain. Yet his family called him their “Special Angel”, and they were already missing him dearly.

When I think of angels, one particular image remains vivid in my heart. It’s a painting that hung in the church education building during my Sunday school days. It showed a little sister who had lost her way, about to cross a mountain stream. The current looked swift and dangerous, and the children stood frozen in fear. Behind them stood a beautiful angel with large wings, protecting them. Even in my childhood subconscious, angels were always dressed in white, with golden hair, appearing as graceful women who stayed close by my side.

But among angels, there are those who defy our imagination. These angels come to us as people with physical disabilities, mental challenges, or lives marked by deep wounds and poverty. Sometimes, their actions overturn our expectations, leaving those around them feeling embarrassed or ashamed. The suffering and poverty they endure are not easy burdens for us. When such angels come into our homes, churches, or communities, our instinct is often to turn away. Yet they constantly need our love, attention, time, and quiet companionship.

So what is the role of these angels? Their mission is to sanctify us. Through their helplessness and vulnerability, our souls learn compassion and love. Through their pain, we discover the true joy of life. They open the heart of the Lord to us and guide us into the arms of the Almighty.

© WanHee Yoon, 2/19/2007