An old poem by the missionary C.T. Studd says, "Only one life, 'twill soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last." As Christians, we sometimes struggle to balance thoughts of eternity in heaven with our present reality on earth. Almighty God has revealed details about heaven, so we are wise to study it. However, Jesus clearly taught that we are to keep busy with His work until He returns (Luke 19:11–27). We must not become so consumed with thoughts of heaven and the Rapture that we overlook the work He has for us now. While creation awaits Christ's glorious Second Coming, the angels are actively engaged in three activities that we, too, are called to undertake. Let's consider these three tasks.

Angels show us how to honor the Lord in our worship.

• They worship attentively (Matthew 18:10, 22:30, 24:36). In Revelation 5:8, we see the angels holding "golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints." How are you engaging in worship each day? What precious prayers from you have helped fill those bowls as they rest in the holy hands of angels today?

• They worship obediently. Angels understand their purpose: their job is to bring glory to God (Hebrews 1:6; Revelation 5:11–12). What is interfering with your obedient worship? Is there idolatry in your heart that needs to be confessed? Have you prayed for His will to be done in your life, just as it's already done by the angels in heaven?

• They worship reverently (Psalm 89:7; Proverbs 9:10). If these holy creatures cry out in praise of God's holiness day and night, how much should you? What is the attitude of your worship? How are you demonstrating reverence for God's holiness?

• They worship freely. Scripture is filled with descriptions of the angels' jubilant, unrestrained worship, and it provides similar instructions for us (Hebrews 12:22; Revelation 7:12, 11:16–17; Psalm 100; John 3:8). Would others describe your worship as joyful? How does your worship demonstrate thankfulness for God's goodness?

Angels show us how to honor the Lord in our work.

• They embody their mission. There are different types of angels suited to different purposes, and angels have been known to take on different forms depending on their assignment. How are you using your God–given talents to honor Him? How are you stretching yourself to fulfill His purposes?

• They follow God's instructions precisely. Angels receive different instructions for different people in different circumstances, and they respond accordingly. What decisions are facing you today? What would obedience look like in that situation?

• They work diligently. When God gives them an assignment, angels are faithful to complete it (Daniel 10:12–14; Revelation 22:6). How have you asked God to show you His specific will for your life today? How have you been faithful to follow through on His guidance?

Angels show us how to honor the Lord in our witness.

• They protect God's people. According to Psalm 91:11, "For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways." Matthew 18:10 describes angels who look out for God's people, and it challenges us to treat each other, particularly "little ones," well. How are you treating God's people? Is there someone who needs your loving protection? How are you honoring your family commitments?

• They communicate God's messages. Along with other important messages, angels have proclaimed Mary's pregnancy, Christ's birth, and His Resurrection (Matthew 1:20–21, 28:5–7; Mark 2:10–12). Now, our risen Lord has given us a message to share with the world:

All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.
—Matthew 28:18–20

Have you prayed today for God's kingdom to come? Have you prayed for His kingdom to be born in the lives of your family and friends and neighbors whom you love, but who are not yet believers? How are you sharing the Good News with others? Who in your life needs to hear God's truth? Have you accepted Jesus' lordship in your own life?

Until the Lord returns, let's serve Him faithfully through our worship, our work, and our witness.