What would you give to see beyond the visible, to see heaven open, to behold the angels, and to stand in the presence of God? Philip brought his friend Nathanael to Jesus, and Jesus did the unthinkable. He revealed to Nathanael that God sees into the very depths of our hearts, inviting us into intimate communion with Him in His heavenly court.
Nathanael was startled that Jesus knew him before they had even spoken. What is the significance of Jesus’ revelation that He saw Nathanael under the fig tree? For Israel, the fig tree symbolized peace and blessing. It offered shade for prayer, reflection, and teaching. Rabbis gathered their disciples beneath its branches, comparing the nourishment of the fig tree’s fruit to the nourishment of God’s Word: “He who tends the fig tree will eat its fruit.” Perhaps Nathanael was meditating on God’s promise of the Messiah, who would free His people from sin and establish righteousness and peace.
Through this revelation, Nathanael recognized Jesus as the Messiah and proclaimed it. Jesus gave him the greatest gift of all, friendship with God and access to His heavenly throne.
Today, as we honor the three archangels, Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, we remember the role of the angels in God’s plan. Pure spirits, immortal and created before humanity, the angels serve as extensions of God’s love and providence. Their mission: to praise and worship God, to deliver His messages, to carry out His will, and to protect His people. As the Psalmist says: “He will give His angels charge over you, to guard you in all your ways” (Ps 91:11).
Throughout Scripture, angels appear as guides and protectors: rescuing Lot’s family, leading Moses, ministering to Jesus in the desert and in Gethsemane, and liberating Peter from prison. Among the nine choirs of angels, the archangels stand out:
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Michael – “Who is like God?” He is the great defender of God’s people, who cast down Lucifer and his fallen angels, who guards the Church, and who fights for us in our spiritual battles. In Daniel, he is Israel’s protector; in Revelation, he is the mighty warrior who defeats the dragon.
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Gabriel – “God is my strength.” He is God’s messenger, announcing the births of John the Baptist and Jesus. To Mary, he brought the message that she would conceive the Son of God. To Joseph, he revealed God’s plan in dreams. To the shepherds, he proclaimed glad tidings of great joy.
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Raphael – “God heals.” He is the healer and guide, accompanying Tobias, arranging his marriage, protecting Sarah, and curing Tobit’s blindness. He shows us God’s desire to heal both body and soul.
The archangels remind us that heaven is near, that God is deeply involved in our lives, and that His love surrounds us through His messengers. Michael strengthens us against evil, Gabriel calls us to listen and respond to God’s Word, and Raphael reminds us of God’s healing power and guidance.
Let us rejoice in their presence and intercession and let us live with hearts open to the same revelation Nathanael received, that God knows us, loves us, and calls us into His heavenly kingdom.
Amen.
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