The origin of the feast of St. Michael the Archangel goes back to the fifth century when a church in the Roman region was dedicated in honor of St. Michael. This feast became very popular in medieval England, and it was the only observance dedicated to angels that was retained in the Book of Common Prayer (although Gabriel is mentioned at the Annunciation). In Scripture, angels are mentioned many times, and St. Michael himself is mentioned in Daniel, the Epistle to Jude, and Revelation. He is the warrior angel who defends God's people from the Devil, and it is important that Christians recognize and honor the work of St. Michael and all the angels.
The Collect for the Day highlights the role of angels in divine order. They are spiritual beings created by God, and they are at work in the universe to praise God and to aid His people.
The Epistle for this day is from Revelation 12:7- 12: In this reading, we see the Archangel Michael's role in the cosmic struggle between God and the Devil. Michael is the battle leader of the spiritual beings that remain loyal to God. In this role, we should remember him and give thanks for his continuing service. At the same time, we must be clear about his role. Unlike Satan, Michael does not exalt his own importance and power.
On the contrary, Michael serves the cause of Christ, the Lamb of God who sheds His blood to bring salvation, strength, and the kingdom of God.
The Gospel from Matthew 18 seems to be far removed from the grandeur of angels and archangels because it speaks of simple children. Yet, children are important in the divine order, and their guardian angels have special honor in heaven.
Thus, angels have an important place in Scripture and in Christian doctrine. From the guardian angel of the smallest child to the great angelic warrior Michael, angels are part of divine creation and serve God's purposes. As the ancient struggle between good and evil continues for a limited time, the angels worship God and also help apply the victory won through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Thanks be to God the Father, to our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the Holy Spirit who are assisted through the work of St. Michael and all angels!
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