Homily for Thursday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time 

Memorial of the Holy Guardian Angels (2 October 2025) 

Theme:

“Guided by God’s Word, Guarded by His Angels.”

Introduction:

When I was a child, my grandmother often told me, “Don’t walk alone at night, your guardian angel can only walk as fast as you do.” At that time, I thought angels were like invisible bodyguards who sometimes needed to catch up with me. Only later did I realise how deep her words were — that God truly sends His angels to protect us, but also that we must walk in His ways so His presence stays with us.

Life story:

There’s a story of a little boy walking home late one evening. His mom asked, “Weren’t you scared walking through the dark street alone?” He replied, “Not really. The whole way I was singing loudly so that my guardian angel wouldn’t get bored.”

The Word of God:

• Nehemiah 8:1–12 – The people of Israel, after years of exile, stand together as the Word of God is proclaimed. They listen attentively, they are moved to tears, and then they rejoice because God’s Word is life-giving. The passage shows how God’s Word enlightens, strengthens, and directs His people.

• Psalm 19 – Reminds us that God’s law is perfect and revives the soul. Just like an angel, God’s Word guards us, guides us, and keeps us on the right path.

• Matthew 18:1–5, 10 – Jesus teaches that true greatness is found in humility, like that of a child. He then reveals the comforting truth: “Their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father.” This is the biblical foundation for our belief in Guardian Angels. They are not only our protectors but also our messengers before God.

Connection of the Readings:

Together, the readings show that God does not leave us alone. He gives us His Word to guide us, and His angels to guard us. The people in Nehemiah’s time were protected by obedience to the Word; in the Gospel, children are protected by their angels. Both reveal a God who cares deeply for His people and provides help for the journey.

Reflection Questions:

1. Do I approach God’s Word with the same eagerness and reverence as the people in Nehemiah’s time?

2. How often do I thank God for the invisible protection and guidance of my guardian angel?

3. Do I live with the humility of a child, trusting that I am always under God’s care?

Implications for Daily Living:

• The Jubilee Year calls us to rediscover God’s mercy and guidance. Like Israel, we must gather around God’s Word and rejoice in its power.

• The Synod on Synodality reminds us that we journey together, not alone — guided by God’s Spirit, guarded by His angels, and strengthened by one another.

• Just as angels walk with us, we are called to be “angels” for each other — offering guidance, protection, and encouragement along the way.

Inspiration:

Knowing that each of us has a guardian angel should make us walk with confidence. Life may have darkness and dangers, but we are never abandoned. God’s angels surround us, God’s Word enlightens us, and God’s love sustains us.

Quote of the Day:

“Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life.” – St. Basil the Great

Final Thoughts:

Our God is a God who refuses to leave us alone — He gives us His Word, His angels, His Church, and His Spirit. To live in fear or hopelessness is to forget that heaven itself is walking with us.

Conclusion:

Today’s memorial reminds us to walk with humility, to cling to God’s Word, and to trust in the protection of our guardian angels.

Concluding Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Word that enlightens my path and for the guardian angel who protects me. Help me to live with the trust of a child, knowing that You never abandon me. May I, too, be an angel of encouragement and hope to others. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.