Memorial of the Holy Guardian Angels
Luke 10:1-12
The Guardian Angels and Our Mission of Simplicity

Today the Church celebrates the Feast of the Guardian Angels. It is a feast that reminds us of God’s tenderness, his closeness, and his constant care for us. Each of us has an angel who walks beside us, not as a distant figure, but as a companion who guards us, guides us, and whispers to our hearts the way of the Gospel. As Pope Francis had said, “No one journeys alone, and no one should think that they are alone. This companion is always with us!”

The Gospel of Luke gives us a broader vision of this mission. Jesus sends out seventy disciples—far more than the Twelve. To the Jewish mind, this number was full of meaning. Seventy were the elders who shared Moses’ burden in the wilderness. Seventy was the number of the Sanhedrin, the council that guided Israel. And seventy was believed to be the number of nations in the world. Luke’s point is clear: the mission of Jesus is not narrow or exclusive—it is universal. Every nation, every people, every heart is called to hear the good news of God’s kingdom.

But Jesus also gives clear instructions: “Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals.” Travel light. Be free. Do not let possessions or comforts weigh you down. This reminds us of our Guardian Angels, who are totally free for God, uncluttered by anything that distracts them. They accompany us so that we too may walk lightly, keeping our eyes on Christ.

Nehemiah gives us another image: the people listening attentively to the Word of God. They stand for hours as Ezra reads from the law, and they weep as they hear it. The Word pierces their hearts. But Ezra and Nehemiah remind them: “Do not be sad. The joy of the Lord is your strength.” God’s Word does not condemn—it gives life. Like the Guardian Angels, it leads us back to joy, to peace, to the freedom of knowing we are loved and accompanied.

Today, let us thank the Lord for the gift of our Guardian Angels. And let us ask for the grace to live simply, humbly, joyfully—ready to be sent wherever the Lord calls.

Prayer:
Guardian Angels, companions of our journey, help us to walk lightly, to trust deeply, and to follow Jesus with joy. Protect us from evil, guide us in truth, and lead us at last into the Father’s embrace. Amen.

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Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025