Author Archive
Posted on: April 20th, 2025 by St. Stephens Downsview
Welcome, everyone. It’s so good to see all of you as we gather on this Easter Sunday to commemorate the resurrection of our Lord. I want to share some reflections from Luke’s gospel. As you’ve heard in Luke chapter 24, verses 9 to 11, we see the account of the women discovering the empty tomb and the apostles’ initial disbelief. These stories are rich with lessons for our lives today.
The Realness of the Gospel
Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate the authenticity with which the resurrection accounts are told. If you pay close attention to the text, you’ll notice there are no attempts to smooth out the rough edges. The realness is evident in the disciples’ misunderstandings and in their initial disbelief. As we reflect on these accounts, we see that they aren’t just carefully crafted tales but genuine parts of our history.
The Women at the Tomb
In today’s scripture, Luke tells us about the women who went to the tomb with spices, intending to prepare Jesus’ body. Despite hearing Jesus predict his resurrection, they expected to find his body there. Their confusion when confronted with the empty tomb is a testament to the unexpected nature of the resurrection event.
The First Proclaimers of Resurrection
An interesting aspect of this narrative is the role of the women as the first bearers of the resurrection news. In a patriarchal society, their testimonies weren’t given the same weight as those of men. Yet, Luke highlights these women: Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Mary, the mother of James. Their experience challenges our own biases and invites us to see the extraordinary roles that seemingly ordinary people play.
Questions of Belief
The apostles were slow to believe the women’s account, which the text describes as seeming to them an “idle tale.” It prompts us to question: Are we, too, sometimes unwilling to believe truths that challenge us? Do we require the resurrection to meet our own burdens of proof before we accept its implications?
Implications of the Resurrection
What we believe about the resurrection matter. It’s not simply a message to be proclaimed but an event that changed human history. It challenges us to consider Jesus not just as a historical figure but as the living Christ who continues to impact the world today.
Conclusion
In our reflections this Easter, let us embrace the complexity and authenticity of the resurrection story. May it stir within us a deeper faith and a willingness to be transformed by its reality. As we remember that Easter morning, let us carry forward the hope and new beginnings that the resurrection signifies.
Posted on: April 14th, 2025 by St. Stephens Downsview
Good morning, everyone. Today, I welcome you to Palm Sunday as we embark on the Holy Week. As we gather, I want to share some words from Luke’s Gospel, chapter 23, verse nine: “Herod questioned Jesus at length, but Jesus gave no answer.” This Palm Sunday marks a significant moment in Jesus’s journey, his final entry into Jerusalem, which was greeted with fanfare and anticipation.
The Contrasting Crowds
Many who followed Jesus believed this would be the moment he overthrew the Roman authorities to liberate God’s people. Others hoped for a miraculous sign proving his Messiahship. But what began with triumphant cries of “Hosanna” quickly turned into shouts of “Crucify him.” Jesus faced a sham trial, His innocence acknowledged by Pilate and Herod, yet succumbed to the crowd’s will. Even then, Jesus took the place of the guilty, exemplifying his sacrifice.
Zooming Out: Understanding the Bigger Picture
Let us take a moment to step back and comprehend the larger narrative at play. In doing so, we gain clarity on what it means to journey with Jesus in his suffering. The incarnation—God taking human form—was for our reconciliation. Jesus, in humble obedience, embraced suffering and death. Paul’s letter to the Philippians beautifully encapsulates this: Jesus was obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
The Courage to Endure
We often say, “I’ll do it, even if it kills me,” expressing determination. Yet, rarely do we expect true peril. For Jesus, this was literal. His determination demonstrates true courage—doing what’s right, even at a great cost. Through this, we learn that God’s boundless love pursued our salvation despite suffering.
Silent Witness: Endurance and Persecution
Jesus’s silence in the face of false accusations stands as a profound witness. He did not retaliate but let his life testify to God’s truth. This silence invites us to a deeper faith; it’s not about refraining from words but about trusting God’s justice and embracing his will, even amidst suffering.
The Call to Obedience
This obedience isn’t learned in moments of trial but cultivated throughout our Christian walk. Through Jesus’s teachings, such as in the Sermon on the Mount, we understand the blessing in persevering through persecution. Jesus’s journey from Palm Sunday to Easter reflects meekness, not weakness—a deference to God’s will.
Reflecting on Our Journey
As we reflect, I encourage each of us to examine how our lives mirror the obedience of Jesus. In daily choices, are we willing to take up the cross of obedience, even if it means personal sacrifice? Navigating this world, remaining true to Christ’s teachings is challenging, yet essential.
An Encouragement for Believers
I conclude with encouragement from the letter to the Hebrews, reminding us to consider the endurance of Jesus. In our struggles against sin, the discipline of the Lord teaches us. As children of God, carrying the palm crosses we receive today symbolizes our allegiance and journey with Jesus. Let us mindfully carry this symbol from now until the next season of Lent.
Posted on: April 6th, 2025 by St. Stephens Downsview
Introduction
Let us begin with a moment of reflection. It’s good to see you all again this morning as we gather on this fifth Sunday in Lent. Today, we’re diving into a passage from John’s Gospel, chapter 12, where we encounter a profound message hidden within a familiar scene.
Understanding the Elephant in the Room
Many of us are familiar with the phrase "the elephant in the room." It’s a metaphorical expression that suggests the presence of a significant, often awkward topic everyone knows about, yet no one addresses. Whether it’s in politics or personal relationships, such elephants often remain unspoken due to discomfort or fear.
In today’s Gospel, John sets the scene in Bethany. Jesus is dining with his friends, including Mary, Martha, and Lazarus—Lazarus, who was raised from the dead, now sitting at the table with Jesus. A scene that might go unnoticed unless we confront the elephant present.
The Significance of Jesus Dining with Lazarus
The unusual scene of Jesus sharing a meal with a man who once was dead serves as our elephant. It’s not just that Lazarus was resurrected; it’s what this act signifies about Jesus’s identity and the divine work of God. It demonstrates that death is not the final word and offers a tangible testament to the renewal and redemption God offers.
The Call to Believe in a New Reality
Jesus’s claim, "I am the resurrection and the life," challenges perceptions of both life and death. It’s a radical invitation to believe in His power, not as a distant future promise but as a present reality. This meal with Lazarus foreshadows the promise that through Him, even death cannot separate us from God’s love.
Mary’s Act of Worship and Recognition
Amidst this profound revelation, Mary acknowledges God’s presence through an extravagant act of worship. Anointing Jesus’s feet with costly perfume, she not only expresses gratitude but also proclaims the magnificent grace of God at work, echoing through the fragrance that filled the house.
Confronting the Elephant in Our Lives
As we navigate our lives, are we willing to confront the elephants, recognize God’s work, and respond like Mary? We mustn’t ignore the divine presence in our midst, lest we be overcome by the very truths we avoid.
Conclusion
In this season of Lent, I urge us to embrace the courage to address the divine elephant, to take up our cross, and follow Jesus. May we be transformed by His presence and may our lives reflect the extravagance of His grace.
Let Us Pray
Creator God, you pave a new path in the wilderness, watering the deserts of our lives. Help us see your hand in all things and open our hearts to be transformed by your renewing grace. May we proclaim your work through our lives, now and forever. Amen.
Posted on: March 30th, 2025 by St. Stephens Downsview
In today’s reflection, we delve deep into the parable of the prodigal son, as told in Luke’s gospel, chapter 15. This story was shared by Jesus in response to the Pharisees and scribes who were upset because Jesus was welcoming and dining with tax collectors and sinners. It serves as a powerful narrative on sin, repentance, and reconciliation.
The Prodigal Son’s Journey
The parable begins with the younger of two sons demanding his share of the inheritance from his father—requesting what would have naturally come to him only after his father’s death. This act is tantamount to wishing his father dead. He takes his inheritance, ventures into a distant land, and squanders it all on a life without morals or boundaries.
When famine strikes, the son finds himself destitute, longing even for the food that pigs eat—a grievous position for a Jewish man to desire. In this rock-bottom state, he comes to a point of clarity and recognizes his wrongdoing. He decides to return to his father, not as a son, but as a hired hand.
True Repentance and Godly Sorrow
This moment of realization exemplifies true godly sorrow and repentance. The Apostle Paul describes in his second letter to the Corinthians that godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, in stark contrast to worldly sorrow, which brings death.
Repentance is more than mere acknowledgment of wrongdoing. It is a heartfelt change in mind and behavior, a turning away from sin towards reconciliation with God and others. This genuine sorrow leads to a restored relationship, removing the burden of guilt and shame.
The Power of Confession and Forgiveness
The psalmist writes of the happiness of those whose transgressions are forgiven, suggesting that silence in acknowledging our sins leaves us burdened. Confession is good for the soul, a tool for reconciliation and wholeness, allowing us to admit our faults and ask for forgiveness.
Refusing to acknowledge wrongs and offer genuine apologies can lead to discord, as seen in historical and current events where nations refuse to recognize their past misdeeds.
Reconciliation: At the Heart of Our Faith
Ultimately, reconciliation is central to the Christian faith. As followers of Christ, we are called to convey the gospel message that we can freely confess our sins and be reconciled to God, who does not hold our transgressions against us.
In the spirit of the prodigal son, we are invited to repent truly and to rise from our rock-bottom places, turning towards a fresh start with God and one another.
Amen.
Posted on: March 23rd, 2025 by St. Stephens Downsview
In Luke’s Gospel, chapter 13 verse three, Jesus imparts a sobering reminder: “Unless you repent, you will all perish as they did.” This notion of repentance can seem daunting, yet it is a central tenet of our spiritual journey. Similar to the game of musical chairs, life is unpredictable. We must be ready when the music stops. Here, I’ll share reflections on embracing repentance before it’s too late.
A Lesson from Musical Chairs
Growing up, I often played musical chairs at birthday parties. The lively music and simple rules made for an exciting game. But the key was always to find a chair the moment the music stopped. This game is a poignant metaphor for life—no one knows when the music will stop, leaving us scrambling for security.
The Gospel of Repentance
In our Gospel passage, we see people approaching Jesus with news of an atrocity: Galileans were massacred while worshiping. Jesus challenges the misconception that tragedy befalls only the wicked by asking if they thought those Galileans were worse sinners. Contrary to popular belief, our safety isn’t guaranteed by our perceived righteousness.
Repentance: A Continuous Journey
Jesus emphasizes the need for true repentance: an authentic turning away from distractions and a reorientation towards Christ. This act is not a singular event, but a continual practice along our Christian journey. Every misstep presents another call to repentance.
The Grace of Lent
Lent offers us a unique opportunity to pause and reflect upon our lives. It’s a time for introspection, allowing us to realign ourselves with Christ’s calling. This season gives us the chance to correct our course and deepen our connection with God.
Honesty and Humility in Repentance
Repentance demands honesty, humility, and the courage to change. It’s necessary to admit our mistakes and step onto God’s path of grace. Paul reminds us that even when we believe we stand firm, we must remain vigilant and humble, relying on God’s strength, not ours, to avoid stumbling.
A Final Parable
Jesus’ parable of the fig tree serves as a reminder of divine patience and opportunity for growth. Despite its unfruitfulness, the fig tree is given another chance to flourish. Likewise, God graciously offers us time to bear fruit in His vineyard.
Conclusion
We live within the rich soil of God’s grace, surrounded by His love and forgiveness. My prayer for this Lenten season, and beyond, is that we seize the opportunity for repentance and growth, ensuring that we are rooted firmly in Christ before our time is unexpectedly up.
In the words of the prayer: “God of infinite goodness, renew our call to repentance and aid us in our journey, surrounding us with grace to fashion our lives anew through Jesus Christ our savior. Amen.”
Now, regarding the meeting minutes in HTML format, unfortunately, Descript does not support HTML formatting or content creation. You can find more help with formatting at Descript’s help center. If you need assistance with anything else, let me know!
Posted on: March 16th, 2025 by St. Stephens Downsview
Introduction
Today, during our nine o’clock service, we gathered in a serene and inspiring environment, blessed by God. Each morning we are offered blessings, and with an open heart, these blessings are waiting for every one of us. As we reflect on these gifts, let us also delve into the teachings of Father Abraham and the power of unity in faith.
Our Call to Worship
In harmony with our blue hymn book, Page 430, we celebrate the blessings bestowed upon us. As we continue our morning reflections, remember that God provided us with beautiful weather and gentle rain as tokens of His blessings.
Both physically and spiritually, our blessings are present, ready to be embraced. To receive blessings from the Lord, we must gather among His people, as the Bible assures us: “Where two or three are gathered in My name, there I am.”
Do Not Lose Heart
Turn to your neighbor and softly tell them, “Do not lose heart.” None of us are as old as our patriarch, Father Abraham, yet, he did not lose heart. In Genesis chapter 15, during his prayers, the Lord spoke to him in a vision, promising Abraham that his name and destiny would change.
Faith Through Endurance
Reflect on Abraham’s endurance. He was steadfast even amidst trials, a virtue needed for receiving God’s blessings. As an African man married in 2010, I’ve been waiting on the Lord, just as Abraham did, despite the pressures of age and family. Remember, “Your blessings are on the way. Do not lose heart. Your healing, restoration, miracle, breakthrough, and success are here.”
Emphasizing Togetherness in Faith
The world advances, and so must our worship. While tradition binds us, today’s spiritual journey is enlivened by dynamic prayer and community support, much like Paul and Silas in their imprisonment. Gone are the days of passive participation; active engagement in prayer and praise fuels spiritual growth and joy.
Support in the Community
As we navigate life, remember our need for mutual support. Alone, we may succumb to doubt and despair. Together, our spirits are uplifted. In Proverbs chapter 15, we learn the value of counsel. A problem shared is a problem eased.
Bring your prayer requests to the altar, trusting God and the coalition of believers. It is an act of faith, supported by God’s promise that where two or three gather, He is present.
Concluding Encouragement
In challenging times, let us encourage one another. Pray for absent sisters and brothers, for together, we reinforce each other’s faith. As Ecclesiastes reminds us, two are better than one; when one falls, the other lifts them up.
This is a call to keep the heart open to God, to embrace joy and compassion, and to support fellow believers in prayer. As we seek God’s guidance and blessings, remember the power of community and the strength found in unity.
Let’s continue to seek these blessings and live in faith as a unified congregation, uplifting individual spirits and enriching our collective journey in Christ. Hallelujah!
Posted on: February 17th, 2025 by St. Stephens Downsview
Good morning, everyone. I’m delighted to gather with you, even though it may be online, to share some reflections from Luke’s Gospel. Recently, as we listened to Luke chapter 6, verses 17 to 18, it brought to mind not only the healing power present in those days but also the resilience we are called to embody in our own times.
The Resilient Mango Tree
When I think of resilience, my family’s home in the Bahamas stands as a vivid metaphor. Nestled on arable land, once a farm, it hosts a majestic mango tree just a short walk from the back door. Planted in the early ’80s, it has grown and thrived, weathering storms and offering its bounty freely. Its resilience comes from deep roots reaching the nourishing water beneath. It reminds me that our capacity to endure life’s adversities is deeply connected to our foundation.
Storms of Life
Today, we are confronted by tumultuous times. Uncertainty looms over our present and future, indiscriminate of wealth or status. Whether we live comfortably or face daily struggles, we all long for stability and meaning. When hurricanes of life knock us to our side, like that old mango tree, the essence is not the storm’s ferocity but our depth of grounding in Jesus Christ.
Rooted in Spiritual Truth
Our possessions and status do not define the essence of a truly lived life. Luke recounts that large crowds sought Jesus, seeking healing and authentic life. Among them were both the wealthy and the impoverished. Yet, Jesus taught that true life does not consist in possessions but in being deeply rooted in Him, the true source of life.
The Call to Authenticity
We must ask ourselves whether we strive for authenticity. Are we serving others with humility, or do we merely secure our own comforts? True life manifests in the character we cultivate—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control. These are the fruits worth pursuing, the life worth living.
Embracing True Life
God offers us a transformative life anchored in Christ, urging us to love God deeply. The storms will come and go, but God’s hands hold us secure. When we root ourselves in Him, we find peace and purpose, unaffected by life’s external storms.
The Invitation
If you feel a longing for this anchoring, approach the source of life, where you will find healing and rest. Amen.
Now, let us reaffirm our faith with the words of the Apostles’ Creed, placing our trust in this transformative journey.
As we reflect on these thoughts, let’s take a moment to listen to the hymn, “Thy Word,” inviting its message to resonate within us.
Posted on: December 9th, 2024 by St. Stephens Downsview
Luke tells us that John went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sin. As it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.
Over the last year and about two months, the world’s attention has been captivated by what are perhaps the two major conflicts of the world. The war between Russia and Ukraine, and the war between the Israeli government and Hamas. The reality is that neither of these wars started in this generation. Their roots, originating from that original offense, go back for many generations. Some nations and people have been fighting for so long that they probably can’t even remember what they were really fighting for anymore. We just know that we are at war.
It takes real effort to remember an offense over many generations because it requires intentionality in holding a grudge. It requires intentionality to hand on unforgiveness, to teach those coming after us what those who have gone before us have done, in a way that engenders a desire for vengeance, even against their descendants. You didn’t do me anything, but your father’s father’s father’s father’s father did, and so you’re going to bear the brunt.
Transforming Our Path
Where does it all end? How do we stop this moving train? Or at least, how do we change its course or direction? While it may be easy for us to ask such questions about external wars, it is much more challenging for us as the people of God to address the questions of such wars which rage within us. That is the internal struggle over whether we strive to walk more and more in the light of Christ and in communion and fellowship with his body, the church, or whether we continue to try to do things our own way, on our own terms in this life, and to try to go it alone. Because that’s the war that rages within each and every one of us.
The Challenge of Identity
It is both ironic and devastatingly sad that many nations and peoples continue to fight, even to this day, against other nations. They’ve invested so much in the cause—so much into this conflict—that stopping feels impossible. The conflict has become such an integral part of their identity that they would find it very difficult to even recognize themselves if they just stopped fighting. This is who we are. Similarly, I would venture to say that we find it extremely difficult to change the course of our lives because we feel that we have gone so far down a particular road.
Our lives and our identity have been shaped by the unfortunate choices and decisions that we have made along the way, forming a kind of home for ourselves. Leaving that home or recognizing who we really are if we were to live more like the way Christ calls us is a difficult task. But yet, friends, that is precisely what repentance calls us to do.
The Call to Repent
In repentance, there is a change of heart, a change of mind with regard to the choices that we have made or the things that we have done, and therefore a change in the direction in which our life is headed. That’s what repentance means. There is authentic godly sorrow over our past deeds because in that moment of repentance, we recognize and acknowledge that God’s way was always right and that it is we who have strayed. From that moment of repentance, we endeavor in the grace of God and with the power of the Holy Spirit to continue along God’s way and not our own.
The Pathway to Peace
Repentance is stopping right in our tracks—and turning back towards the light, turning back towards God. Walking towards the light that is Christ’s life, it is in this act of repentance, stopping, acknowledging, turning, and walking towards God that we begin to experience the peace that Christ brings. God’s peace goes to the root of our conflict. It goes to the heart of our sin. It begins with truth-telling, and this truth-telling must often work through conflict to establish a true and authentic peace.
Conclusion
Perhaps the place to begin in identifying those things of which we need to repent is by giving careful attention to those areas of our lives where we do not presently experience God’s peace. As you consider who you are and where you are in the light, where is that groaning in your life? Where is that heaviness? Where’s that sense of unease? Where’s that sense maybe of complacency in the midst of the darkness?
God never called us to be peacekeepers. God calls us to be peacemakers. And making peace is by no means easy work, but it is important work. It is gospel work. It is the path of peace. It is our salvation.
Posted on: October 14th, 2024 by St. Stephens Downsview
In a world where headlines often scream of scarcity, rising costs, and economic woes, it’s easy to become ensnared in a narrative that seems almost inescapable. Today, I invite you to pause with me and consider a different perspective—one rooted in the teachings and wisdom of scripture, and more importantly, in the boundless generosity of God.
Reflecting on Scripture
This morning, let’s meditate on the words from Matthew’s Gospel, Chapter 6, verses 25 and 32 to 33: Jesus says, “Do not worry about your life, what you will eat, drink, or wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? It is the Gentiles who strive for all these things. Your heavenly Father knows you need these things, but strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness.” These words beckon us to shift our focus from anxiety to faith, from scarcity to abundance.
As we observe Thanksgiving, a time traditionally set aside to be grateful, let us explore the juxtaposition between the pervasive feeling of scarcity and the divine truth of abundance. For the past few years, many have felt the pinch of rising costs—groceries, rent, fuel—all seem to surge relentlessly. We’ve grown accustomed to hearing explanations that boil down to supply chain issues or economic demands.
The Reality Behind Rising Costs
However, if you pay close attention, you’ll notice an unsettling trend: major grocery store chains and investment capitalists continue to post record profits despite the economic strain felt by many. This paints a picture not just of supply and demand, but of greed—greed that distorts the prices we pay for necessities like food and shelter.
This greed is evident in other aspects of our lives too—be it fuel prices, homeownership, or saving for future needs. We’re tangled within an economic web designed to cause fear that we might not have enough. Yet, Jesus’ teaching calls us to a different understanding, one that challenges the prevailing mindset.
Living in God’s World
Jesus was not merely offering comforting words but revealing a significant truth: this is God’s world, and He has abundantly provided for all our needs. The Old Testament lesson from Joel echoes this, reminding us of God’s ability to restore and provide generously.
We often forget how to share, succumbing to the belief that the world’s resources are finite. But the world manipulates this fear of scarcity to drive consumption. The world’s markets thrive on convincing you that there’s never enough, and that you’re merely a consumer whose identity is defined by possessions.
Recognizing and Embracing Abundance
As people of God, we’re called to reflect on whether we’re living according to the world’s scarcity lie or God’s abundance truth. Recognizing that we’ve all been swayed by the scarcity narrative is the first step toward liberation from its burden. This acknowledgment allows us to lean into God’s grace and live more freely.
Our understanding of abundance affects how we view our finances, hold onto possessions, and relate to others. Believing that we need to hoard and protect our resources only burdens us with more anxiety and distance from God’s purpose.
Striving for God’s Kingdom
God encourages us to focus not on what we think we need, but on His kingdom and righteousness. By overly focusing on material needs, we invite anxiety into our hearts and miss witnessing God’s providence in our lives. When we shift our attention towards God’s kingdom, we find true freedom and joy, experiencing His provision in profound ways.
Generosity, self-giving, and gratitude are acts of worship and recognition of the God who continuously provides for us. Let us not waste our lives chasing after what we cannot take with us, but instead, seek a life rich in connection, meaning, and faith.
Conclusion
As we strive for God’s kingdom, let us remember that our Heavenly Father knows our needs. He invites us to trust in His abundance, putting aside our fears and embracing the life He offers. Seek first His kingdom, and the rest will follow.
Posted on: September 30th, 2024 by St. Stephens Downsview
It’s a great day to be here, worshiping with you. Today, we honor Saint Michael and all angels, a feast dedicated to recognizing Michael’s and the angels’ roles in the Christian faith.
As a child, I attended St. Michael’s Primary School in Antigua, run by Anglican nuns. Every Wednesday, we gathered for mass to worship and learn the fundamental principles of the Christian faith. The school’s motto, “On the Lord’s Side,” called us to align our lives with Christ in every aspect. We sang the school song with conviction:
“Who is on the Lord’s side? Who will serve the King? Who will be his helpers, others lives to bring?”
During my primary school days, my knowledge of who St. Michael the Archangel was grew. The nuns and teachers emphasized his role as a heavenly warrior and the model we, the students of St. Michael’s School, should mold our lives upon. They reminded us that, like Michael, we too are called to defend our faith.
As I grew older, I noticed that many homes in Antigua had a picture of St. Michael the Archangel somewhere in the house. Michael was pictured with his foot on the devil’s head. This powerful imagery depicted victory over evil and the protection God provides through His angels. These images also served as reminders to defend the faith we profess.
The Spiritual Battlefield
In Christian theology, spiritual forces, both divine and evil, shape our lives. God, the Holy Spirit, and the angels work to guide, protect, and strengthen us, while Satan and the demons try to deceive and lead us away from God. Ephesians 6:10-18 urges us to put on the full armor of God—faith, righteousness, truth, peace, salvation, and prayer—that we can use to bolster our faith and strengthen our belief in God through Jesus Christ.
Michael’s triumph over the devil vividly illustrates how divine forces overcome evil when we stand firm in the faith. Just as Michael was victorious in the war against Satan, we are empowered by God to resist the devil’s schemes in our time.
The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
The first conclusion we can draw from Michael’s example is that spiritual warfare is very real. We struggle with various issues in our lives: ethical dilemmas, questions of right and wrong, and moral conflicts. The ever-present struggle between good and evil is evident in our news streams and our personal lives, where we wrestle with morality and the values of our children.
Michael’s role as a heavenly warrior shows that we are engaged in a battle not of flesh and blood but of spiritual forces. As James 4:7 tells us, “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Like Michael, we must stand firm against the temptations and lies that we encounter. Yet, we do not fight alone. We have Christ’s strength and His angels’ presence to help us in these battles.
When overwhelmed by doubt or fear, when enemies try to make us feel unworthy or far from God, we must remember Michael’s example. The victory has already been won through Christ’s death and resurrection. By His grace divine, we are on the Lord’s side, secure in His love. The forces of evil that torment us daily have no claim on us.
Angels: Helpers and Protectors
The second point of reflection is that angels are not just celestial beings but helpers and protectors. Throughout the Bible, angels appear during significant moments, guiding, warning, and comforting God’s people. Psalm 91:11 promises, “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”
Angels like Michael are actively involved in our lives at God’s command, helping us stay connected to God’s love and protection. They guide us using God’s power and defend us in spiritual battles that we cannot always see or comprehend. When we face struggles, we can pray for help and guidance, confident that God provides assistance through His angels.
We are called to be warriors for good, to stand up for what we know is right and just. Michael’s very name, which means “Who is like God,” challenges us to live lives that reflect God’s goodness and justice. Like the angels, we are not passive recipients of God’s grace but active participants in His plan.
Called to Action
We are all called to ministry, actively involved in God’s plan of salvation, grace, and goodness. As Peter warns in 1 Peter 5:8, “Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour.” We must resist evil not only for our sake but for the sake of the world around us. We fight for peace and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live without fear, fulfilling God’s call on our lives.
As Michael led the angels against Satan, we are called to fight for justice, kindness, and mercy in our communities. This means standing up for what’s right, loving our neighbors, and remaining faithful to God despite worldly temptations.
Conclusion
As we celebrate today and uphold the example of Michael and all the angels, let their ministry inspire us and call us to action. Their actions remind us that we are never alone in our spiritual journey. We are surrounded by heavenly forces working for our good and for the glory of God.
Let us take up the call to stand firm in the faith, resist darkness, and serve as warriors for good in the world. May we always sing in our hearts, “Who is on the Lord’s side? By thy grace divine, we are on the Lord’s side. We are on the Lord’s side.” May we remain soldiers of Christ today as we seek to do His will now and always.
Amen.
