(Please read the Scripture passage before reading the homily.)
Today we celebrate the feast of the angels mentioned in the Bible, Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. Raphael is found in the book of Tobias, a book recognized as canonical by Catholics, but not by all Christians.
Jesus called Nathaniel a true Israelite, one who was not a liar. The original Israel, called Jacob at birth, was known for his lack of honesty. He had cheated his brother out of his birthright and had stolen the special blessing fathers would give their first son.
The remark about the angels ascending and descending upon the Son of Man refers to the story of Jacob’s escape from his brother’s anger. Jacob fell asleep and dreamt of angels ascending and descending a ladder that reached from heaven to earth.
The mystery of angels, dreams and ladders, somehow calls us back to the beginning of creation, the beginning of our relationship with God, and God’s call to us for life. Something new is happening in this part of John’s Gospel account. We are in on the new beginning of creation when angels climb ladders and refugees dream dreams and God is present among the people.
The mystery of angels, dreams and ladders from heaven to earth brings us to the mystery of how God takes care of us. We may have to escape from our dangers as refugees do, but God is present to support us. No matter the dangers and trials of life, God uses ladders, dreams and angels to protect us. There may be huge battles in the heavens, but the Lord is mightier the devil, death and destruction. The ladder is still here, angels visit us, and God remembers us.