While addictions certainly have a neurobiological component, we would be fools if we discount the supernatural drama at play when we find ourselves tempted to act out. All of us have had that “out of nowhere” thought that suddenly arises in our thinking, that “lure” to do evil, that cunning and baffling temptation that either subtly insinuates itself in our mind or overpoweringly assaults our every thought. We must recognize the hand of the Devil in these moments, malevolently influencing us, earnestly “seeking the ruin of souls” (Saint Michael Prayer). The Church is clear that we cannot fight this battle on our own. We must rely on the sacramental grace of Christ and the Holy Spirit, the intercession of the Saints, and the protection of our guardian angels.
Jesus teaches, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me. See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father” (Matthew 18:3-5, 10). It is worth noting that Our Lord draws a clear connection between the humility and trust of a little child and one’s connection with the angels and our Father in heaven. A commentary on this Gospel passage from the Didache Bible states, “While the immediate context refers to children, this phrase can be extended to all who are innocent or vulnerable…Because each person’s angel stands before God the Father, in this sense the faithful share in the company of the angels and saints in Heaven.” In other words, we are not alone, and if we embrace humility, we will receive aid and comfort.
In recovery, we can learn from the wisdom of Catholic philosopher Peter Kreeft who wisely wrote, “Wherever you go, you take your angel. So before you go to any place, ask yourself whether it’s a place that’s fitting for an angel to go” (Angels and Demons: What Do We Really Know About Them). As our protectors and the most intimate witnesses to every aspect of our lives, the good, the bad, and the ugly, let us treat our guardian angels with gratitude and respect and act becomingly in their presence. And let us have recourse to them in all our temptations!
Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God’s love commits me here, ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide. From sinful stain O keep me free, and at death’s hour, my helper be. Amen.
Reflection Questions
- What kind of relationship do you have with your guardian angel? Give some examples of devotions you can practice to honor your guardian angel.
- How have you sensed the presence of your guardian angel in your life?
Daily Mass Readings
First Reading: Nehemiah 8:1-4a, 5-6, 7b-12
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 11
Gospel: Matthew 18:1-5, 10
Reflection by Pete S.