Three Archangels were sent from heaven to look after God’s beloved children on earth
Reflections on the readings for the Feast of Ss. Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael (September 29, 2018): DN 7:9-10,13-14 or RV 12:7-12; PS 138:1-2,2-3,4-5; JN 1:47-51
MISSIO offers “Preaching Mission,” as a homily help, providing connections to mission from the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
Today we celebrate the three angels who appear in the Scriptures as messengers of God’s loving care for His people on earth.
St. Michael is the defender of Israel in the Old Testament and against Satan and the other fallen angels in the Book of Revelation. St. Raphael is a guide and healer in seen in the story of Tobit and his son Tobiah. St. Gabriel is the communicator of God’s plan for Mary to be the mother of His Son. In the Gospel for this feast, we hear Jesus tell His new Apostle Nathaniel: “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man” (John 1:51). Christ is the center of heaven and earth and the angelic choir worships Him in His divinity and humanity.
These angels came among us to serve the children of God in different ways, but at all times the reveal His personal concern and mercy for us. When we need protection, truth and direction we can turn to Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, who are in the unique position of being both angels and saints, to look after us in our needs. These immortal spirits are dedicated to worshipping God, not only in His presence, but in ours as well.
