Unlikely Angels

There is a man named Fred Phelps. He fancies himself a “Man of God”, an “old-time” gospel preacher. He claims, “You can’t preach the Bible without preaching the Hatred of God.”

Preacher Phelps’ congregation is made mostly of his family. His church (actually his home) is indoctrinated in the belief that homosexuals are destroying America.

How this belief correlates to the actions of Preacher Phelps and his congregation at the funerals of military members (applauding their deaths, regaling with signs that read “Thank God for IEDs” or “Thank God for Dead Soldiers” escapes me. Perhaps a better explanation is found here:

Jeremiah 14:14 (NIV)

14 Then the LORD said to me, "The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I have not sent them or appointed them or spoken to them.

There exists a band of brothers, a motley crew with a two-fold mission: showing respect for fallen military members, their families and communities; protecting the mourning from protestors.

They are adorned, not in robes gilded with gold, but more often in denim and leather.

Their wings are not readily seen.

Their chariots have two wheels.

They are the men and women, nay, angels of the Patriot Guard Riders.

Were it not for the likes of men like Fred Phelps, we may never have known their presence.

Psalm 91:11 (NIV)

11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways