The Feast of Saint Michael and All Angels

Ask any principal or administrator of a high school. “Yes, we grade on the curve around here. We expect reasonable and personal application to the subjects that are presented. Some will do quite well. Others will not achieve that standard, but they will pass. And there are some who will fail for one reason or another. It’s not enough just to take up space in a classroom. You must do the homework, classwork, and pass the examinations. It’s the only way to learn academically. Oral and written tests have been around a long time. Empty barrels make the most noise. And empty heads do not make a responsible citizen.”

Today is the Feast of St. Michael and all the Angels. They were not created to enjoy the Beatific Vision immediately. They were put on trial. A number passed and a number failed. Separation was made that is rather definitive. No crossing from one side to the other.

In the Gospel today, Nathaniel was given a test. Confronted with a revelation about himself, he could have turned heel and walked away. Who needs someone to grade your behavior? By staying, he might find out more about himself than he would care to know. Jesus has said, “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their Angels always behold the face of my Father who is in heaven.”

We rejoice that even in this life, our Guardian Angels always see the face of God whom we worship, adore, and hope to see with the Angels on a level that is truly blessed. The great army of Angels rejoice in God’s glory. In adoration and joy, we make their hymn of praise our own. The time of testing will be over. The marks will be in. And post-graduate celebration will become a reality.