Feast of Archangels
Readings:
Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14
John 1:47-51
Reflection:
Today is the Feast of Archangels Gabriel, Raphael and Michael. They each have a special mission. Gabriel is God’s messenger that revealed to Mary the announcement of Christ’s birth. Raphael brings healing and is the protector of travellers. Michael is known for leading the battle to protect God’s people against the devil and his evil angels. Michael is also invoked to escort the dying to heaven at the hour of their death.
Over the centuries artists, poets and sculptors have depicted these Archangels in many forms. In galleries around the world hang paintings – from the Annunciation by Fra Angelico (1426) and John William Waterhouse (1914) to Piero della Francesca (1469)’s St. Michael . Millions pass through their doors to appreciate the beauty and masterly artistic techniques. Angels are spirits and thus are not visible and yet many artists have attempted to bring them to life for our delight and pleasure. Through the splendour of art the viewer can be drawn into the scene and can experience an encounter with God.
There are countless other unnamed angels who continuously worship God. There are only occasional descriptions in the Bible of humans coming face to face with angels.
In the Gospel Nathanael’s response to Philip’s invitation to come and find Jesus reflects the same invitation that each of us is given to encounter Jesus. A personal invitation, from a friend or family member, can be a truly powerful and life changing moment where we are given the chance to encounter Jesus.
It takes courage to invite and it takes courage to accept. Just as the angels announce God’s message to the world we too are called to do the same.
On finding Jesus, Nathanael enters into an amazing dialogue which ends with his heartfelt profession of faith – Rabbi, you are the Son of God, you are the King of Israel. Jesus in turn promises him that he will see great things that were unimaginable – the heavens opening up and angels of God ascending and descending.
O Jesus, our most holy Redeemer, we ask you to bless our home, our family, our household. Preserve us from all evil.
Victoria Raw is parishioner of Te Whetu O Te Moana, Star of the Sea Marlborough, NZ and is active in lay ministry.