Memorial of the Guardian Angels
Intention: For the gifts of integrity, dedication, and compassion for all who serve as educators, formators, and caretakers of the young.
Today’s Gospel | Matthew 18:1-5, 10
The disciples approached Jesus and said, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?” He called a child over, placed it in their midst, and said, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me.
“See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father.”
From the Meditation on the Holy Guardian Angels | Saint John Baptist de La Salle
How much this help we receive from our good angels ought to lead us to respect them! Must this not also inspire us with devotion toward them and with confidence in their protection? We owe them respect, says Saint Bernard, because of their presence; devotion, because of their kindness toward us; confidence, because of their care to guard us. We are also obliged to acknowledge the unbounded charity with which they obey the order to take care of us in such great and such continual need.
Prayer
Eternal Father, so often we think of the path to you as only a gentle and reassuring walk. We forget that the ways of the world will often make it a difficult journey, filled with hard choices and painful lessons. We pray that we will not become discouraged. Help us to find in your presence the strength to sustain us, and in your words the wisdom to guide us. We ask this of you who lives and reigns with your Son and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.