Today we celebrate some angels who are actually pretty low on the celestial hierarchy, but have been special emissaries for God and for us. St. Michael was charged with driving out Lucifer and the angels who rebelled against God, and continues to defend the Church against the Devil. St. Gabriel was the privileged messenger who brought to Zechariah and to Mary the news of the incredible vocations they and their children would have. St. Raphael brought help and healing to the afflicted.
These archangels remind us that the heavenly hosts serve the Lord by protecting his creation, especially us, from evil; by bearing special witness to him when needed; and by being the instruments through which we receive healing from God. If we could see the angels who, faithful to God, carry our their missions for the good of creation, we’d be as awestruck as Nathanael in today’s Gospel at the sight of their number and majesty.
The angels continue to help us even today. Let’s not be shy about asking for their intercession.
Readings: Daniel 7:9–10, 13–14; Psalm 138:1–5; John 1:47–51.
