The Holy Gospel according to John 1:47-51
Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him,
“Here is a true child of Israel.
There is no duplicity in him.”
Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?”
Jesus answered and said to him,
“Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.”
Nathanael answered him,
“Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.”
Jesus answered and said to him,
“Do you believe
because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree?
You will see greater things than this.”
And he said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you,
you will see heaven opened
and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”
Reflection:
Today is the Feast Day of Saints Michael, Rafael and Gabriel. So, I am going to give you a taste of Biblical History because I find it interesting. There is a certain Order (Level) of Angels that has always intrigued me. This hierarchy of angels, often referred to as the “choir of angels,” is traditionally organized into three orders, each containing three choirs. And there are nine choirs of angels. Here is a brief overview of the “Choirs of Angels”:
First Hierarchy: Closest to God
1. Seraphim are known as the “burning ones,” the Seraphim are positioned closest to God’s throne.
2. Cherubim are often depicted as guardians of divine mysteries.
3. Thrones are seen as angelic beings that embody the justice and authority of God.
Second Hierarchy: Governing Angels
4. Dominions are responsible for overseeing the duties of lower angels.
5. Virtues are believed to support miracle workers and influence the physical universe.
6. Powers are considered the warrior angels who defend against evil spirits.
Third Hierarchy: Closest to Humanity
7. Principalities are given charge over nations and cities. They are seen as guides for world leaders.
8. Archangels are known for their role as God’s special messengers, archangels carry important messages to humanity, as seen in the scriptural accounts of St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael.
9. Angels are guardian angels who are assigned to protect and guide individual human beings.
Angels Michael, Raphael, and Gabriel each have been assigned their unique roles and significance in Gods Divine plan. Their actions and messages, as described in Scripture, highlight the presence and intervention of God in human history. Here’s a look at each of these archangels:
Saint Michael the Archangel is known as the protector and leader of the heavenly armies against the forces of evil. He is often depicted with a sword, symbolizing his role as a defender of truth and justice. Saint Gabriel the Archangel is known as the messenger of God, delivering important messages related to the divine plan of salvation. He is often depicted with a lily, symbolizing purity, and sometimes with a trumpet, representing the announcement of God’s word. Saint Raphael the Archangel is known as the healer and guide. His name means “God heals,” and he is associated with bringing healing and offering guidance on one’s journey. The archangels remind us of God’s continual care and presence in our lives, acting as His messengers, protectors, and guides. Think of these words from Jesus in today’s scripture, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”
Action of the Day: In what ways can the examples of St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael inspire you to embrace God’s guidance and protection in your life?
Audio Reflection:
