Saint Michael the Archangel and Defeating the Forces of Darkness

 

When we think of the sources of temptation and the forces which oppose our faith, it is important to recognize our own brokenness and the errors of society which surrounds us, especially the errors of communism as Our Lady warned. But we must never forget as St. Paul and Our Lady of Fatima remind us that we are also fighting a spiritual war against Satan and all of his demons. If we were left on our own, we could not stand before the forces of such evil. But as the angels always say when they appear in Sacred Scripture, "Do not be afraid" for the Lord has not left us by ourselves. Rather, by the grace of God the angels of heaven guide and protect us as they have for thousands of years. Of all the angels and archangels, St. Michael is probably the most well known. For the Book of Revelation tells us that he leads the charge against the abominable dragon and strikes the enemy down. He is a powerful warrior and protector of God’s holy people. But how is St. Michael so strong?

All power and might comes from the Lord. St. Michael is able to defeat the enemy precisely because he loves and serves God, and Satan falls precisely because of his arrogant disobedience. The Enemy tries to be like God without God; his pride is utterly foolish. This is why St. Michael leads the charge for his very name is the question which squashes Satan’s pride; for the Hebrew name "Michael" means, "who is like God?". The answer, no one is like the Lord Almighty! In our own spiritual life and battle we must learn from St. Michael and implore the intercession of all the archangels. We must learn that to oppose God is foolish and futile. But humility and obedience leads the way in the conquering of sin and the triumph of love. So on this day let us humbly fall to our knees in prayer and penance and rely on the power of Jesus Christ who has defeated sin by His Death and Resurrection. And having done so we will find courage and refuge in the protection of St. Michael and in the Immaculate Heart of Mary who reigns as Queen of heaven and all of God’s holy angels. In the Hearts of Jesus and Mary, Christopher P. Wendt International Director Confraternity of Our Lady of Fatima ===================================================== "Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil; May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; And do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and all evil spirits who who prowlmbout the world seeing the ruin of souls. Amen."