St. Michael the Archangel - Who Is Like Unto God?

Homily for the Feast of the Archangels

The Feast of the Archangels draws us into the mystery of God’s nearness, His protection, and His desire to reveal heaven to humanity. Today’s readings place us right in the middle of that drama — from the cosmic battle in Revelation to the quiet, personal encounter between Jesus and Nathanael in John’s Gospel.

Revelation gives us a sweeping vision: “Michael and his angels fought against the dragon.” It’s a reminder that the spiritual life is not abstract. There is a real struggle between good and evil, truth and deception, humility and pride. But notice something essential: the victory belongs to God. Michael does not win because he is powerful on his own. He wins because he stands in God’s truth. The name Michael means “Who is like God?” — a battle cry against the arrogance of the evil one. This feast invites us to stand with Michael in that same truth. Not by dramatic gestures, but by the daily choice to reject the lies that diminish us and embrace the grace that lifts us.

Psalm 138 echoes this confidence: “In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises.” The psalmist recognizes that God’s fidelity is not distant. It is personal, intimate, and constant. God strengthens us “when we call,” and His love endures forever. The angels are not mythical beings; they are signs of God’s closeness, His desire to guide, protect, and accompany us. They remind us that we never fight alone.

In the Gospel, Jesus reveals something astonishing: He sees Nathanael before Nathanael ever sees Him. “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.” This is the heart of today’s feast. The God who commands angels, who defeats the dragon, who fills the heavens with glory — is the same God who sees you in the quiet places of your life. Jesus doesn’t just see Nathanael; He knows him. He understands his honesty, his longing, his skepticism, his hope. And He promises him something breathtaking: “You will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.” This is Jacob’s ladder fulfilled. Heaven touches earth in Jesus. The angels move at His command. And Nathanael — an ordinary man — is invited to witness the glory of God. So are we.

“St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil; may God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell satan and all evil spirits who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen.”

- Pope Leo XIII