DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

THURSDAY OF THE 26TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR 

Celebration:  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.

ENTRANCE ANTIPHON

Table of the Word 

First Reading: Exodus 23:20-23

Gospel: Matthew 18:1-5, 10

Theme: Angels on Guard. 

And the Lord Whispers:

“See, I am sending an angel before you, to guard you on the way and bring you to the place I have prepared” (Exodus 23:20).

Reflection

The Lord’s promise in Exodus is not distant history, it is a living reality. From the dawn of creation, God entrusted each of us to the loving care of His angels. These invisible companions are not abstract forces, but messengers of His presence, guardians of His children, and constant reminders that heaven walks with us (cf. Exodus 23:20-23)

The psalmist sings of this truth: “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways” (Psalm 91:11). The angels are God’s shield against the snares of evil, carrying His protection into our daily struggles.

Today, Jesus, in the Gospel, reveals their highest dignity: they behold the face of His Father in heaven (cf. Matthew 18:10). Our guardian angels live in ceaseless adoration, yet they stoop with humility to walk with us especially the little ones, the humble and  the childlike in heart. Their mission is not only to protect but also to guide us into the mystery of God’s Kingdom, where greatness is found in humility and trust. And the Lord exhorts us in a gentle whisper: "Today, walk with the awareness that you are never alone. In moments of fear, temptation, or confusion, pause and invoke your guardian angel’s help. Their silent presence is a sign that I journey with you."

Then let us pray: 

Lord, I thank You for the gift of my guardian angel, faithful companion, unseen protector, gentle guide. Teach me to listen to Your whispers through this heavenly friend, and to walk in humility like a child, trusting always in Your providence.

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE 02102025