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Monday, September 29, 2008

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Sts. Michael, Gabriel,
& Raphael


Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14 or
Revelation 12:7-12
Psalm 138
John 1:47-51

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a date with an angel

"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

As important as he is now, the archangel Michael will be even more important to us at the world's end. "At that time there shall arise Michael, the great prince, guardian of Your people; it shall be a time unsurpassed in distress since nations began until that time" (Dn 12:1). Possibly Gabriel's and Raphael's ministry will be even more crucial as the world's end approaches. We definitely need Michael's victory, Gabriel's revelation, and Raphael's healing now. We may need them even more in the future.

Are you getting to know Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael? Do you talk to them? Do you ask them to serve you? (see Heb 1:14) By the time we die or the world ends, these three archangels should be our friends. We're going to need all the help we can get, but it's hard to accept help from total strangers. There are myriads of angels (Dn 7:10), but we know only the names of Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. The Lord revealed to us their names so we can get to know them. Don't ignore these three awesome creatures who have accepted God's call to serve us. We need them. Each day, talk to one of them about what the Lord wants him to do in serving you. You will see that these angels love you, and you will come to know and love them.

Prayer:  Father, thank You for every part of Your plan of salvation. Thank You for creating me to need angels.

Promise:  "Then war broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels battled against the dragon." —Rv 12:7

Praise:  Raphael tells us: "Thank God! Give Him the praise and the glory. Before all the living, acknowledge the many good things He has done for you, by blessing and extolling His name in song" (Tb 12:6).

Rescript:  †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 25, 2008

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