October 2, Guardian Angels

The Lord has put angels in charge of you, to guard you in all your ways.--Psalm 91:11

Mass readings: Baruch 1:15-22 / Matthew 18:1-5,10

The Truth About Angels

You have to be of a certain age (middle-aged, at least!) to have been instructed to slide over in your school desk seat to make room for your guardian angel. That was a popular and powerful way a teacher in a parochial school made the point that these heavenly helpers were, in fact, right here. I never heard of a youngster answering, ''Excuse me, Sister, but since my guardian angel is not a corporeal being I really don't need to do that, do I?'' That's the truth, of course. They're completely spiritual. No bodies.

There's another truth that, as adults, we tend to overlook. Your guardian angel is no wimp. According to what the Church teaches, this immortal creature with intelligence and free will chose to obey God. That takes courage, strength and faith.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for the angel You chose for me. Help Your messenger bring me safely home to You.