Episode 2471: Angels, Priests, and the Call to Holiness - Morning Episode

Today’s episode invites us to reflect on the incredible dignity given to humanity, especially to priests, and the spiritual realities that surround us daily. We will meditate on the wisdom of St. John Chrysostom, St. Catherine of Siena, and the prophet Isaiah, as we consider our place in God’s divine plan.
In this episode, we will focus on three key insights:
1. The ever-present spiritual warfare between angels and demons.
2. The immense dignity of priests, chosen by God to administer His grace.
3. The peace and strength that come from trusting in God.
Together, these reflections will help us deepen our understanding of our relationship with God, the spiritual realities that surround us, and the role of the priesthood in leading souls to salvation.
________________________________________
Living in the Presence of Angels and Demons
St. John Chrysostom, one of the great Fathers of the Church, reminds us of the spiritual reality that surrounds us at all times. He says, “If then we have angels, let us be sober, as though we were in the presence of tutors; for there is a demon present also.” This profound statement calls us to a deeper awareness of the spiritual battle we are engaged in every day.
As Catholics, we believe that God has given each of us a guardian angel to watch over and protect us. In Psalm 91:11-12, we read, “For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; on their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.” Our guardian angels are constantly by our side, guiding us and interceding for us before the throne of God.
At the same time, we must remember that demons, fallen angels who rebelled against God, are also present, seeking to lead us away from God’s grace. St. Peter warns us in 1 Peter 5:8, “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” This spiritual reality calls us to vigilance, prayer, and reliance on the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Confession, which strengthen us against the attacks of the evil one.
St. John Chrysostom’s words encourage us to live with a heightened awareness of the presence of both angels and demons. By being sober and vigilant, we can cooperate with the grace of God and the protection of our guardian angels, while resisting the temptations of the devil.
________________________________________

The Dignity of Priests and the Salvation of Souls
In her dialogue with God, St. Catherine of Siena was given a profound revelation about the dignity of priests. God Himself spoke to her, saying, “I will first, dearest daughter, speak to thee of the dignity of priests… so that, through them, the Blood of the humble and immaculate Lamb, My Only-begotten Son, may be administered to you.” These words reveal the incredible role that priests play in God’s plan for the salvation of souls.
Through the priesthood, Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is made present to us in the Holy Mass, and the sacraments are administered to give us the grace we need for salvation. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us that the priest acts in persona Christi, meaning that when a priest administers the sacraments, it is Christ Himself who is acting through him.
This dignity, as God reveals to St. Catherine, elevates priests above even the angels. While angels are pure spiritual beings who serve God perfectly, priests are men chosen by God to stand in His place on earth, administering the sacraments that bring us into communion with Him. In Hebrews 5:1, we read, “For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins.” This shows us the unique role of priests as mediators between God and man.
As we reflect on the dignity of priests, we are called to pray for them, support them, and encourage them in their vocation. The salvation of souls depends on their faithfulness to their calling, and we, as the faithful, must do our part in helping them fulfill their mission.
________________________________________
Trusting in God’s Strength and Finding Peace in Him
Finally, we turn to the words of the prophet Isaiah, who speaks to us of the peace and strength that come from trusting in God. In Isaiah 30:15, we read, “For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, ‘In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.’”
This passage reminds us that true peace and strength come not from our own efforts, but from placing our trust in God. When we surrender ourselves to Him, He fills us with His grace and gives us the strength to face the challenges of life. In the midst of spiritual warfare, we are not called to rely on our own strength but to rest in the Lord, trusting that He will fight for us.
The spiritual life is often a battle, but it is a battle that has already been won by Christ. By returning to God, resting in His love, and trusting in His strength, we can find the peace that the world cannot give.
________________________________________
Conclusion
As we conclude this reflection, let us remember the spiritual realities that surround us: the presence of angels and demons, the dignity of priests who administer the sacraments, and the peace that comes from trusting in God. We are called to live in the awareness of these truths, allowing them to shape our daily lives and draw us closer to God.
Let us be vigilant in prayer, support our priests in their sacred vocation, and place our trust in the Lord, knowing that He is our strength and our peace.
________________________________________
Closing Prayer
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the gift of Your holy angels, who protect and guide us in our journey toward You. Grant us the grace to be vigilant in prayer and to trust in Your protection as we face the spiritual battles of this life.
We lift up to You all priests, whom You have chosen to administer the sacraments of salvation. Strengthen them in their vocation, and may they be faithful shepherds who lead souls to You.
Lord, we place our trust in You. In returning to You, may we find peace and strength. Help us to rest in Your love and to live in quiet confidence, knowing that You are with us always.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.