Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial
of the Guardian Angels (02nd October, 2018) on the Gospel and the Memorial
Job 3:1-3.11-17.20-23;
Ps 87:2-8. (R. v.3);
Matt 18:1-5.10.
Guardian angels are the angels assigned to protect and
guide a particular person, group, church, kingdom, or country. They also present
prayers to God on behalf of the person/s they are assigned to. Belief in
guardian angels can be traced throughout all antiquity[1]. Every individual soul has a guardian angel
commissioned to guard it from birth. This belief can be found even among the
pagans. In the Bible this doctrine is clearly discernible and its development
is well marked. The Old Testament conceived of God’s angels as His ministers
who carried out His behests, and who were at times given special commissions,
regarding men and mundane affairs, cf. Gen
28-29; Ex 12-13. 32:34, Ps 90:11; Dan 10. In the New Testament, angels
served as intermediaries between God and man[2],
cf. Matt 4:11; Mk 1:13; Acts 12:6-11;
Heb 1:14.
Topic: Our Guardian angels.
We celebrate today the memorial of the (our) Guardian Angels.
As already explained above, they are those angels assigned to each person for
various reasons.
The work of the guardian angels is well-rooted in the
scriptures. For instance, the Psalmist pointed out their role in God’s assured
protection on those who trust in Him in these words, “...he will command his
angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will
bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone” (Ps 91:11-12). Jesus also made reference
to these angels in His warning in today’s gospel, “Take care that you do not
despise one of these little ones; for, I tell you, in heaven their angels
continually see the face of my Father in heaven” (Matt 18:10).
However, for one to enjoy the full protection of these
guardian angels, he/she must realise their presence, have a good relationship
with the angel, and also be obedient. Hence, Pope Francis exhorts all in his
homily for the Feast of Holy Guardian Angels in 2014, “Do not rebel, follow his
advice!” He also described them as our travelling companions.[3]
Dear brothers and sisters in the Lord, these angels are
commissioned for our good. Discover them and have a good relationship with
yours.
Bible Reading: Ps 91.
Thought for today: Your heavenly escort is
always on guard, cf. Ps 121:3-4.
Let us pray: May God help us remain continually
under the guidance and protection of His holy angels – Amen.
Our Guardian angels – Guide and protect
us.
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others if you consider it worthy.
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May
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