When Angels Seem Near

“Cardinals appear when angels are near.”

This saying comes from a poem written to comfort those who are mourning the loss of a loved one. 
Perhaps you have heard someone say this. Or you may have heard someone say that a cardinal was a message or sign from the person they are missing. 

We deeply long for the connection we had with loved ones who are gone. When we mourn, it is natural to look for reminders of that person. We cling to the hope that they aren’t really absent. As comforting as it may seem to think that a cardinal provides a connection with our loved one, God’s word gives us a true, lasting hope, rather than just wishful thinking. The saying about cardinals and angels includes two misconceptions that can lead us away from truth that is rooted in Scripture. 

The first misconception is the belief that when people die, they become angels. Humans are the pinnacle of creation, uniquely made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27). Angels are also created by God, but they are entirely different beings (Psalm 8:4-5). Nowhere does the Bible suggest that we become angels when we die. Scripture teaches us something more meaningful. 

We continue to be human beings after death. For a time, our body and soul are separated, but when Jesus returns, our bodies will be resurrected. We will continue to live as humans, with glorified bodies, just like Jesus (Philippians 3:20-21).

The second misconception is that a bird, or any other type of sign, provides a connection with a loved one who has died. Seeing a specific object may remind us of someone we love, but these signs are not evidence of a spiritual or physical presence. Our comfort cannot rely on fleeting moments or symbols, because these can distract us from the truth.

When we see a cardinal, we can remember that birds are a part of God’s creation. We can reflect on God’s beauty and majesty as reflected in his creation. Meditating on God and seeing his creation as a reflection of his goodness can lead us to thank God for the time what we spent with our loved one. We can also reflect on what Scripture says about believers who have passed away. The bird — or any part of creation — can be a marker which points us towards God. 

When Jesus was on the cross, he was hanging between two other men. One of them recognized that he deserved the punishment he was enduring. He also knew that Jesus was accused unjustly. Jesus assured him that he would be with him in Paradise that very day (Luke 23:43). When we think of our loved ones who believed in Christ, we can be reassured that they are with Christ, enjoying rest and communion with our Savior. 

True and lasting comfort comes from the Lord. When we trust in Christ, we are promised that our loved ones who believe in Him are fully and eternally with Him. Our hope is not in seeing cardinals or other fleeting signs. Our hope is in Christ and the promise of spending eternity together with our Savior.

Rather than thinking of angels being near when cardinals appear, we can remember this instead:

 God is always near and counts our tears.

See also: Is the Bible a Love Letter?

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