Daily Catholic Lectio
Wed, 2 Oct ‘24
XXVI Week in Ordinary Time, Wednesday
Holy Guardian Angels, Memoria
Job 9:1-12, 14-16. Matthew 18:1-5, 10
God’s accompanying presence
As we celebrate the Holy Guardian Angels, we are reminded of God’s abiding and accompanying presence in our lives through the ministry of angels. These heavenly beings are sent to guide, protect, and accompany us on our journey of faith. Today’s readings invite us to reflect on how we are always in God’s loving care, even in times of struggle, and how we are called to live with childlike trust in His presence.
1. God’s transcendence and nearness
In the first reading, Job reflects on God’s overwhelming greatness. He speaks of God’s power and majesty, marvelling no one can question or fully understand His ways: “Who can say to Him, ‘What are You doing?’” (Job 9:12). This passage emphasizes the transcendence of God – His vastness and mystery are beyond human comprehension. Yet, even though God is beyond our reach, He is near to us through His angels. While Job feels distant from God in his suffering, the angels remind us that God’s presence is always with us, even when we cannot see or understand His ways.
Though God’s ways may seem mysterious, His angels are a constant sign of His nearness. Like Job, we may face moments of doubt and hardship, but we are never abandoned. God’s angels accompany us, guiding and comforting us with His presence even in our darkest moments.
2. Childlike trust in God’s care
In the gospel reading, Jesus teaches His disciples about greatness in the Kingdom of Heaven, placing a child in their midst and saying, “Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:4). The image of a child highlights the need for humility, simplicity, and trust in God’s care. Just as a child relies completely on their parents for protection and guidance, we are called to rely on God with childlike trust. Guardian angels, who watch over us, embody this loving care of God, protecting and guiding us as we navigate the uncertainties of life.
To experience God’s presence through His angels, we are called to become like children – humble and trusting. Our angels are a reminder that we are not alone in life’s journey. We can rest in the assurance that God provides for us, especially when we place our full trust in Him.
3. Angels: God’s messengers of protection and guidance
Jesus says, “See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father” (Matthew 18:10). This reveals the intimate relationship between guardian angels and God’s children. Angels, always in God’s presence, are sent to watch over us, intercede for us, and guide us towards holiness. Their role is to accompany us throughout life, ensuring that we stay on the path of righteousness and avoid the dangers that threaten our soul. In their constant presence, we see how deeply God values and loves each of us.
Guardian angels are a powerful sign of God’s loving protection. They watch over us, not just physically, but spiritually, guiding us to live in a way that pleases God. As we honour our guardian angels, let us also acknowledge God’s constant care and commit ourselves to following their guidance toward holiness.
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The ‘pilgrims of hope’ live in the assurance that they are never alone – God’s presence accompanies, guides, and corrects them. (Jubilee 2025 AD, bite 214)
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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