Readings for September 29, 2025
First Reading – Daniel 7:9–10, 13–14
As I watched: Thrones were set up and the Ancient One took his throne. His clothing was snow bright, and the hair on his head as white as wool; His throne was flames of fire, with wheels of burning fire. A surging stream of fire flowed out from where he sat; Thousands upon thousands were ministering to him, and myriads upon myriads attended him. The court was convened, and the books were opened.
As the visions during the night continued, I saw One like a Son of man coming, on the clouds of heaven; When he reached the Ancient One and was presented before him, He received dominion, glory, and kingship; nations and peoples of every language serve him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that shall not be taken away, his kingship shall not be destroyed.
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 138:1–2ab, 2cde–3, 4–5
R. In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.
I will give thanks to you, O Lord, with all my heart,
for you have heard the words of my mouth;
in the presence of the angels I will sing your praise;
I will worship at your holy temple.
R. In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.
Second Reading – Revelation 12:7–12ab
War broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels battled against the dragon. The dragon and its angels fought back, but they did not prevail and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. The huge dragon, the ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, who deceived the whole world, was thrown down to earth, and its angels were thrown down with it.
Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have salvation and power come, and the Kingdom of our God and the authority of his Anointed. For the accuser of our brothers is cast out, who accuses them before our God day and night. They conquered him by the Blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; love for life did not deter them from death. Therefore, rejoice, you heavens, and you who dwell in them.”
Gospel – John 1:47–51
Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Here is a true child of Israel. There is no duplicity in him.” Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.” Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” And he said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”
✨ Reflection for September 29, 2025
I. Introduction
Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael—mighty messengers of God, defenders of His people, and signs of His divine care. Their lives remind us that humility means acknowledging God’s power above all, trusting His guidance, and allowing His angels to accompany us in our journey of faith.
II. The Gospel Passage and Its Context
In John 1, Jesus affirms Nathanael’s honesty and reveals a greater reality: the heavens are opened, and the angels ascend and descend on the Son of Man. The angels’ activity points to Christ as the bridge between heaven and earth. Through Him, God’s presence and protection are fully revealed.
III. Broader Scriptural Resonance on Humility
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Daniel’s vision shows the majesty of God and the Son of Man receiving dominion. Before such glory, humility is our only fitting response.
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Revelation describes the triumph of Michael and the angels over Satan. Yet, it emphasizes that victory is achieved “by the Blood of the Lamb”—not by human strength.
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Psalm 138 reminds us to give thanks in the sight of the angels, worshipping in awe and gratitude.
Together, these readings highlight that humility is living with awareness of God’s greatness, trusting His protection, and praising Him alongside His angels.
IV. Reflections
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St. Michael teaches us humility in battle—our strength comes not from pride but from God’s authority.
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St. Gabriel embodies humility in service—he delivers God’s message, not his own.
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St. Raphael shows humility in healing—he restores not for his glory, but for God’s.
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Like Nathanael, we are invited to be without duplicity, living with integrity before God.
Quote for Emphasis:
“Make yourself familiar with the angels, and behold them frequently in spirit; for without being seen, they are present with you.” — St. Francis de Sales
V. Practical Applications
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Invoke the Archangels daily—pray for protection, guidance, and healing.
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Be honest like Nathanael—strive to live with integrity, without duplicity.
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Praise with gratitude—join the angels in giving thanks for God’s presence in your life.
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Trust God in battles—know that struggles are won through Christ, not our own power.
VI. Conclusion
The Archangels remind us that humility is not weakness but the strength to depend entirely on God. As Michael defends, Gabriel proclaims, and Raphael heals, so too may we live as humble servants of God’s kingdom, always pointing to His glory and power.
📖 Verse of the Day
“You will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.” — John 1:51
🙏 Prayer for the Reader
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for sending Your holy angels to guard, guide, and heal us. Help me to walk humbly before You, with honesty of heart and gratitude for Your constant care. Strengthen my faith to trust in Your plan, even in battles I cannot see, and grant me the courage to live as a true disciple of Christ.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
🙌 Intercessory Prayer to the Archangels
St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle; protect our country, families, and Church from every evil.
St. Gabriel the Archangel, bring us God’s Word with clarity and courage, that we may live by His truth.
St. Raphael the Archangel, heal our wounds, guide our steps, and lead us toward wholeness in body, mind, and spirit.
Holy Archangels, pray for us and help us remain faithful, humble, and strong in the Lord. Amen.
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