The Wings That Guard Creation by Jeff Callaway

 The Wings That Guard Creation

by Jeff Callaway

Texas Outlaw Poet

There exists a timeless truth, a divine hierarchy of spirit and purpose, where three Archangels stand as pillars of God’s will, each a living expression of His infinite power. Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael are more than just names whispered in prayer; they are the mighty engines of heaven, a celestial triumvirate in constant, holy motion. Their stories, woven through the very fabric of salvation history, are a testament to God's love for His creation and His ever-vigilant defense of it.

Saint Michael: The Warrior of Heaven and Judge of Souls

The name Michael, echoing through the ages, is a battle cry: "Who is like God?" It is a question that serves as both a rebuke to pride and a declaration of unwavering faith. From the earliest days of tradition, he is known as the Prince of the Heavenly Host, the champion who led the loyal angels in a war against the dragon and his rebellious legions. The Book of Revelation describes this cosmic conflict, with Michael casting Satan and his followers from the heavens. This victory is not a one-time event; it is a spiritual truth that continues in the human heart, where Michael wages war against the lies and temptations of the enemy.

His roles are as diverse as they are powerful. He is the defender of the Church Militant, protecting God’s people through every trial and persecution. He is the angel of the final judgment, summoning souls to the throne of God with a mighty trumpet blast and holding the scales of justice to weigh their deeds. It is this duty that makes him the great guardian of the dying, shielding souls from the attacks of demons as they transition from this life to the next.

His earthly manifestations are legendary. Atop Monte Gargano, he appeared in a cave, commanding that a sanctuary be built in his honor. At Mont-Saint-Michel in France, he appeared to a bishop in a dream, urging him to build a church on the rocky isle. His most famous miracle in Rome came during a plague in 590 A.D., when Pope Gregory the Great saw Michael sheathe his flaming sword atop what is now Castel Sant'Angelo, a sign that the plague was at an end. These sites, and others like them, form a spiritual ley line across Europe known as the "Sword Line," a chain of sanctuaries dedicated to the Archangel's watchful gaze.

In more recent times, his intercession was sought by Pope Leo XIII, who, after a terrifying vision of demonic evil, composed a powerful prayer to Saint Michael, which was recited after every Low Mass for decades, a spiritual armor for the faithful. Today, the Vatican Gendarmerie invokes him as their special patron, a modern shield against evil.

Saint Gabriel: The Messenger of God’s Will

The name Gabriel means "God is my strength," and his service is a living testament to that power. While Michael’s purpose is war, Gabriel’s is communication—he is the great messenger of the most sacred truths. He first appeared to the prophet Daniel, revealing prophecies about the coming Messiah. Centuries later, in the New Testament, he brought forth the two most pivotal announcements in human history. First, he appeared to Zechariah, announcing the birth of John the Baptist, the last prophet who would prepare the way for the Lord.

His greatest commission, however, came in Nazareth. He appeared to the Virgin Mary, and with the words, “Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee,” he announced the Incarnation of the Son of God. His name is forever linked to this singular moment when the Word became flesh. Because of this role, he is regarded as the patron of all who work in communications, from broadcasters and postal workers to telegraph operators and journalists, who carry messages from one soul to another.

In art, he is often depicted with a lily, a symbol of purity, to honor the Blessed Mother to whom he brought his holy message.

Saint Raphael: The Divine Healer and Companion

Raphael’s name, "God heals," is the essence of his divine service. Unlike Michael and Gabriel, who appear in single, fleeting moments, Raphael's story unfolds over an entire book of the Bible, the Book of Tobit. In this heroic and heartwarming narrative, he reveals himself not as a celestial general or messenger, but as a humble companion. Disguised as a traveler named Azarias, he guides young Tobias on a perilous journey to a distant land. Along the way, he protects him from danger, helps him catch a fish whose entrails can cure blindness and drive away a demon, and even helps him find a faithful wife.

Raphael’s story teaches us that the angels are not just distant figures of power, but intimate friends who walk beside us on our own journeys. He is the patron of travelers, a constant and reassuring presence on the road. As the angel of healing, he tends to the sick, not just with miraculous cures, but with the balm of comfort and hope. His final revelation to Tobias and his father, Tobit, is a beautiful summary of his purpose: “I was sent to test your faith, and at the same time God sent me to heal you.”

In art, he is often shown with a pilgrim’s staff, symbolizing his companionship on the road, and the fish he helped Tobias catch, a symbol of divine providence and healing.

As we approach September 29, the Feast of these Archangels, we are reminded of their tireless work on our behalf. They are the instruments of God’s will, a celestial triumvirate of power, message, and healing. They stand as a testament to the fact that heaven is not a distant, passive place, but a spiritual reality actively engaged in the affairs of mankind. Through their intercession and example, we are called to be warriors for truth, messengers of hope, and healers of the broken world, all for the greater glory of God.

~ by Jeff Callaway

Texas Outlaw Poet

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