unemployment in heaven
"I solemnly assure you, you shall see the sky opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man." —John 1:51
Someone wants to work for us and do jobs which must be done, although we can't do them or find anyone else to do them. It's just what we need — and for free! Who are these people? They're not humans, but angels. There are "thousands upon thousands" of them (Dn 7:10). One has been assigned to guard each of us.
The archangels, Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, will also help us. Michael's specialty is spiritual warfare — something we're engaged in daily, especially if we're living the life in the Spirit. "Then war broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels battled against the dragon. Although the dragon and his angels fought back, they were overpowered and lost their place in heaven" (Rv 12:7-8). That war Michael finished in heaven is continuing on earth, and we're in it. St. Michael, pray for us. We need you.
Gabriel specializes in annunciations and revelations. He helped Daniel to understand Jeremiah's prophecy (see Dn 9:21-27) and carried to Mary the greatest message ever: God was to become man in her womb and His name would be Jesus (Lk 1:31-32).
Raphael works in the areas of guidance and healing (Tb 12:7). Goodness knows we need that. Remember, angels are "ministering spirits, sent to serve those who are to inherit salvation" (Heb 1:14). Let's keep them employed.
Prayer: Father, thank You for giving me angels. I'm sorry for leaving them unemployed or underemployed.
Promise: "They defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; love for life did not deter them from death." —Rv 12:11
Praise: St. Gabriel the Archangel was the first creature in recorded history to speak the name of Jesus (Lk 1:31).
Rescript: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 8, 2005
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