Michaelmas

“War broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels fought against the dragon. The dragon and his angels fought back, but they were defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven.” Revelation 12:7-8

Today, Day 198, is Michaelmas. Or, as Lutherans refer to it, the Feast of Michael and All Angels. Some denominations add the names of other angels to the name for the day: Gabriel, Raphael, even Uriel.

Michael figures prominently in the cosmic warfare depicted in the apocalyptic writings of scripture. In the readings appointed for today, Daniel foretells the great battle while John, in Revelation, writes as if it has already happened: War broke out in heaven.

While I do not spend a lot of time meditating on angels and demons, I have no doubt as to their reality. There is evil in this world that exceeds the sum of human sin. It is a power, a force. It is demonic. But it pales in comparison to the forces of good, whose power flows from Jesus Christ. As today’s passage from Revelation continues, we read that the angels have conquered through the blood of the Lamb.

As for the angels, so for us. Our power in the fight against evil in this world lies not in our strength, but in Jesus’ love. On this Michaelmas, may God’s angels watch over you.

Be well, friends. You are loved.

God of the universe, there is much that is beyond our knowing or comprehending. But you hold it all in your hands. Give us faith to know that the victory is won, on earth as it is in heaven. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Image: St. Michael and the Devil, Raphael, early sixteenth century (public domain).