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Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of the Guardian Angels (02nd October, 2017) on the Gospel and the Memorial
 
Zech 8:1-8;
Ps 101:16-21.22-23.29. (R. v.17);
Matt 18:1-5.10.

Guardian angels are the angels assigned to protect and guide a particular person, group, 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 Readings: 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.
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