Saint Michael the Archangel

               The readings for our Patronal feast illuminate the importance of divine protection, particularly as exemplified through St. Michael the Archangel. Each passage reveals aspects of God’s faithfulness, the struggle against evil, and the assurance of His safeguarding presence, culminating in a deeper understanding of why St. Michael is invoked for protection.
                In Deuteronomy 7:9-10, we are reminded of God’s covenantal faithfulness: “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who maintains covenant loyalty with those who love him and keep his commandments.” This passage highlights the nature of God as a protector and a faithful guardian of His people. The assurance that God will repay those who hate Him serves as a stark reminder of the moral order and the consequences of turning away from God. Here, we see the foundation of trust that believers can have in God’s protection, which is not merely passive but active, as He defends His people against those who oppose Him. St. Michael, as a leader of the heavenly hosts, embodies this protective role, fighting against the forces of evil and safeguarding the faithful.
                Revelation 12:7-12 presents a vivid depiction of the cosmic battle between the forces of good and evil. The archangel Michael leads the heavenly army against the dragon, symbolizing Satan, who seeks to devour and destroy. The triumph of Michael and his angels over the dragon signifies not only a victory in the heavenly realm but also the assurance that evil will ultimately be defeated. This passage underscores the reality of spiritual warfare and the need for divine protection in our lives. St. Michael, as the protector of the Church and the faithful, stands as a powerful intercessor in this ongoing battle, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles against sin and temptation. His role serves as a source of encouragement, urging us to remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that God’s forces are actively engaged in defending us.
                In John 1:47-51, we encounter Jesus’ interaction with Nathanael, where He reveals profound truths about His identity and the nature of divine revelation. Jesus tells Nathanael, “You will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.” This imagery evokes the connection between heaven and earth, illustrating how God’s protection and guidance are continually at work in our lives. The reference to angels ascending and descending signifies the active role of heavenly beings in the lives of believers. St. Michael, as one of the chief angels, is integral to this divine communication and protection. He serves as a reminder that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses and that God’s messengers are ever-present to assist us in our journey of faith.
The importance of St. Michael’s protection becomes evident when we reflect on these readings collectively. They remind us that God is faithful and actively involved in the lives of His people, providing protection against evil and guiding us toward His truth. St. Michael stands as a powerful figure of this divine protection, embodying the strength and courage needed to confront the challenges we face in our spiritual lives.
                Invoking the protection of St. Michael the Archangel is not merely a ritualistic practice but a profound acknowledgment of our reliance on God’s power and the intercession of His heavenly messengers. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember that we are part of a larger spiritual reality, where God’s faithfulness, the struggle against evil, and the assurance of His protection converge. May we seek the intercession of St. Michael, trusting in his powerful defense against the adversary and embracing the divine protection that God offers to all who call upon Him.