Great Helpers from God (Feast of the Archangels, September 29)

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It appears many of us Christians have lost a bit of some consciousness of certain realities about our faith. When I was a kid, we were used to entertain fear of foreseen and unforeseen dangers or threats especially at night when there is darkness. But then, the feeling of fear vanished whenever we became aware that someone was with us. As a kid, I can’t remember ever stepping out into the dark without someone accompanying me. And the presence of that person is always assuring.

Today, we are celebrating the feast of archangels (Michael, Gabriel and Raphael). These are angels; not only angels but archangels (the chiefs of angels). And as the name of their office suggests, they are messengers of God to us. Our faith teaches us that they are pure spirits and the scriptures are very clear on the nature of their activities and tasks: they defend, protect and guide. In the Book of Daniel, Archangel Michael is described as the great prince who defends Israel against its enemies. In the Book of Revelation (which we read today), Michael leads God’s armies to final victory over the dragon and the forces of evil. Again, in the Book of Daniel, Archangel Gabriel is described as announcing Michael’s role in God’s plan. In the gospels, Gabriel appeared to a young woman named Mary and announced to her the message of the incarnation. In the Book of Tobit, Archangel Raphael played the role of a guide, a healer and a restorer. In our time and space, these archangels continue to carry out the tasks which they have received from God: Michael protects; Gabriel announces; and Raphael heals and guides.

Nowadays, many of us are under the grips of fear: fear of foreseen and unforeseen forces and threats. And we have quickly forgotten that there are thousands upon thousands of good spirits (who we describe as angels) who are always at our service: they are at our service as messengers, guides and protectors. If we are conscious of their presence, why do we continue to allow fear to rob us of our joy and peace of mind? We are called to grow in greater awareness of their presence. Let us ask for their intercessions so that we may always be faithful to God at all times. Let us ask them to grant us fervor in prayer and perseverance in the service of the Lord until the end of our lives.    


      

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