Monday 29th September – Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Archangels

Reflection: John 1:47-51

ANGELIC MINISTRATION

Jesus Christ is the Glory of the angels. His is the reason why they exist (CCC 331), and because Christ lives in us He has angels appointed to every one of His children (CCC 336). We often hear of “guardian angels”. Indeed, they are real and Scripture says “Are they not ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14). All through the Bible, we see the activities of these heavenly messengers. One of the most familiar is the Visitation of Mary by the Archangel Gabriel. Another is in the book Revelation where we read of Michael, the chief of the angels, warring to dethrone Satan from heaven (Revelation 12:7-9).  One more instance of angelic activity in the Scriptures is found in the book of Tobit, where we see the Archangel Raphael ministering to Tobias. All these stories tell us of the reality of the unseen world of angels.

What is the importance of angels to you and I as individuals? As earlier stated, every child of God has an angel appointed to him or her at birth. This Angel is to guard you and ensure that you arrive safely in heaven. Are we aware that our angels are always with us? Do we cooperate with them to achieve God’s plan for our lives? It is possible for one to frustrate his guardian angel by the way the person lives his life. Angels are holy beings, and sin puts them off, hence paving way for the enemy to attack us. But if we cooperate with our angels, we will be fortified daily as they assist us to fight against the attacks of the enemy.

Beloved, you can enjoy better angelic assistance on daily basis if your way of life is pleasing unto God. The Bible says that angels do the will of God by listening to and obeying His commands. (Psalm 103:20). The blessings of Christians are sometimes delayed or are not even received at all because the angels that bear the answers to their prayers have been frustrated by their disobedience. Hence, let us cleanse ourselves of all unrighteousness in order to enjoy the ministrations of the glorious company of angels in our daily lives.

PRAYER: Pray that God may give you the necessary graces you need to fully cooperate with the angels who are sent to minister unto you.

KNOW YOUR FAITH: CCC 336 – From its beginning until death, human life is surrounded by angel’s watchful care and intercession. “Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life.” Already here on earth the Christian life shares by faith in the blessed company of angels and men united in God.

HIDE A TREASURE: “Who are the angels then? They are spirits who serve God and are sent by Him to help those who are to receive salvation.” Hebrews 1:14 GNB

Readings for Today: Daniel 7: 9-10, 13-14; Psalm 138:1-5; John 1:47-51.