Monday 21. September 2014. The Feast of St. Michael and all angels
At that time shall arise Michael, the great prince who has charge of your people. And there shall be a time of trouble, such as never has been since there was a nation till that time. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone who's name shall be found written in the book. (Daniel 12,1 ESV)
Today is the feast of St. Michael and all angels. Michael is one of two angels named in the Bible. Gabriel is the other. Raphael is a third angel named in the Apocrypha, specifically the Book of Tobit.
Michael's name translates as "who is like God?". He is considered the leader of the angelic host who is specifically tasked to watch over God's people: Israel in the Old Testament and the Church in the New Testament. As such, Michael is in charge of the Church throughout the world to this very day.
The angels all have specific tasks that they undertake on behalf of God. Some, like the cherubim and the seraphim, serve as a heavenly choir singing praise to the Triune God around His throne. Others, like Michael and Gabriel, are understood to be archangels. And then there is the unnumbered host of angels.
Often the angels perform their tasks unseen. One a few occasions they make their presence known, such as when Gabriel spoke to Mary and Joseph about the birth of Jesus or when Michael appears to Daniel.
Although angels are very powerful, they are not the crown of creation. Mankind was made in the image and likeness of God. This puts men and women as the pinnacle of God's wonderful creation. The angels serve us according to God's will. They are an expression of His love and providence for His creation.
Prayer: O Everlasting God, You have ordained and constituted the service of angels and men in a wonderful order. Mercifully grant that, as Your holy angels always serve and worship You in heaven, so by Your appointment they may also help and defend us here on earth; through Your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen. (F29, Treasury of Daily Prayer)
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