The Word: Thus says the LORD: "Behold, I send an angel before you, to guard you on the way and to bring you to the place which I have prepared.” (see Exodus 23:20-23)
Mystery of the day: Glorious
Celebration of the day: The Holy Guardian Angels
This celebration was placed in the Roman calendar in 1615. Scripture is full of stories of angels coming to help patriarchs. Each person has his own Guardian Angel. Angels are God's messengers whose mission is to take care of us, to protect our way on earth, and to share with Christians the apostolic zeal to get souls closer to God. St. Peter was liberated from jail by an angel. Our Lord spoke of angels of children who constantly behold his Heavenly Father's face. Our Guardian Angels are our friends.
Table of the Word: I R.: Exodus 23:20-23
Resp. Psalm: Psalm 91
Verse before the Gospel: Bless the Lord, all his hosts, his servants, who do his will.
Gospel: Matthew 18:1-5.10
Inspiration: Beloved in Christ, I wish to give you a big shout on this great Feast day of our Guardian Angels as we roll out drums to celebrate these Heavenly Beings. There are many instances in the Scripture and other writings of the Church where the works and assistance of angels are being explained. The Book of Psalms reminded us of how God promised us a guidance through angel when He said: "For he commands his angels with regard to you, to guard you wherever you go." - (Psalm 91:11)
It is on account of this that we gather as Universal Community of worship - the Church to celebrate this great feast which expresss our act of honouring the heavenly companions entrusted with our care. These spiritual guardians are a testament to God's loving providence and protection.
Biblically, the concept of guardian angels can be found here viz:
1. Psalm 91:11 - God commands angels to guard us.
2. Matthew 18:10 - Jesus teaches that children have guardian angels.
3. Acts 12:15 - Peter's angelic deliverance.
4. Hebrews 1:14 - Angels serve as ministers and guardians.
However, their roles cannot be over-emphasised as we have many instances where they assist and help every human person and family.
In Psalm 34:7 they Protect us from harm; Guide us on our spiritual journey (cf. Psalm 23:4); intercede for us (cf. Job 33:23-24); and offer spiritual guidance and wisdom.
In our day-to-day living, we have experienced many angelic assistance though we may not recognize sometimes, such as evading accident, untimely death, guiding our steps and protection from upcoming dangers.
Finally, let us try our best to live according to the detects and ordinances of God so as to impress our Guardian Angels. Peace be with you!
Let us pray
O God, who in your unfathomable providence are pleased to send your holy Angels to guard us, hear our supplication as we cry to you, that we may always be defended by their protection and rejoice eternally in their company. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen
© The ARCHIVE 02102024
Amen
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