Touched by an Angel (1994)

Episode Overview

Three years earlier, James Mackey ended a volatile hostage crisis by taking down the gunman who had killed his partner. Now, journalist Monica is penning a piece about the town's sheriff and his heroic past. While Mackey is a devoted father, he places tremendous pressure on his son, Matthew, to secure a spot at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis. Overwhelmed by fear of failure, Matt cheats on a college entrance exam and is caught. Terrified of his father’s response, he attempts suicide. In his coma, Monica reaches out with her celestial abilities to encourage him to fight for his life. She also helps Sheriff Mackey confront his own demons, revealing that his late partner, Nick Hansen, was the real hero, having saved him during their confrontation with the criminals. Through Monica's guidance, Mackey learns that he is loved by God, allowing him to reconnect with his son.