The Two-Edged Sword

Pinnac was elated. In his hand was an invitation usually reserved only for the highest-ranking angels in his legion. A highly secretive meeting had been arranged for the purpose of establishing a new policy, and he was to have a part in the implementation process. He was thrilled for this honor and moved swiftly with singleness of purpose to prepare for the secret conference. He realized he would be working with his legion’s top leader, Lucifer, the powerful archangel also known as “Son of the Morning.” This angel, one of the most influential beings in Heaven, was so commendable that the eternal God had given him one third of the angels to oversee. Though millions of bright beings were under his reputable management, Pinnac was delightfully aware he was one of a very few who’d been chosen as part of his promotional team. It had been ages since Pinnac had worked with the top echelons of his regime. Though in the Heavens there is no marking of time—for eternity is not measured in days—yet the invitation sparked ancient memories of past exciting experiences with this magnificent leader. Eager to get started, he gathered his clothing changes as well as some gifts to present to those who would host this clandestine delegation. Speculating about his final destination, he entered one of the single-passenger Skypers and quickly punched in the secret code from the invitation. As the vehicle launched and sped through space, he noticed he was headed toward the small planet Earth, located in a solar system within a lesser-known galaxy. Soon the Skyper arrived at the covert destination. Earth, a small but beautiful planet was a pleasant place to visit. Green and lush, the mountains and waterfalls were a favorite resort of the upper echelons of power. Not too hot or cold, it was an enjoyable tropical paradise; gold and silver were in abundance and the air was sweet and pleasant. Disembarking the tiny Skyper, Pinnac looked up to see Jucola, a worship angel from the highest order, extending his hand. “Welcome, Pinnac! I’m glad to see you again,” he smiled nondescriptly as Pinnac shook the hand offered. “Thank you, Jucola,” Pinnac responded amicably. “Please follow me.” Without a further word Pinnac gathered his things and followed him to a small open door. Upon entering the two were immediately whisked up into the air, utilizing their own natural ability of flight, (for angels do not need vehicles to move swiftly.) The fact that Pinnac didn’t know the destination made the movement a surprise to him. Usually his innate homing device was activated within his power of control, not outside of it. Arriving at the undisclosed location, Jucola took his bags and led him to the meeting chamber. Entering, Pinnac found he was not alone; seated at the ornate table was Lucifer himself. Splendid, glorious in appearance and brighter than any other angel, Lucifer was often called by his nickname “Light.” “Pinnac, you are remarkable.” The velvety words had a paralyzing effect on him. “Thank you, sir.” “You’ve just received the invitation, and have arrived in such a short time. I’m impressed with your quick response.” “Thank you, sir,” Pinnac again responded meekly. Bowing slightly, he presented the gift he had so carefully prepared for his host. Getting up from his seat, Light moved closer to receive the present; nodding his appreciation he continued: “Do you know why you’re here?” Fingering the invitation in his pocket, Pinnac responded, “There’s a special assignment, and I’ve been chosen to help execute the order.” Light smiled faintly, knowing Pinnac had no clue as to what the assignment might be. “Do you know why you’ve been selected?” His carefully chosen words had the desired effect on Pinnac who was asking himself that very question at that moment. Without waiting for an answer, Light continued: “You’re one of the most dependable and I know you can keep a secret.” Surprised his non-verbalized question had been acknowledged as well as answered, Pinnac again enjoyably assessed his situation. The fact that Light was planning a secret surprise was not unusual for he often did this within the context of his job description; his responsibility of leading the angels in worship required him to be creative. “I’m pleased, sir, to have been chosen.”