Introduction
You may have heard it said that “angels are watching over you,” but do you ever wonder what that actually means? What do angels do on a day-to-day basis? Especially, what does your guardian angel, a unique helper assigned to you by God, do for you each and every day?
In Catholic teaching, the concept of a guardian angel isn’t just a comforting thought or a metaphor. It’s a real belief grounded in Scripture and Tradition. This article aims to clarify the role of guardian angels in daily life according to Catholic teaching.
What Does the Church Say About Guardian Angels?
The Catechism of the Catholic Church makes it clear that the existence of angels is a truth of faith. Specifically, the catechism says, “The existence of the spiritual, non-corporeal beings that Sacred Scripture usually calls ‘angels’ is a truth of faith. The witness of Scripture is as clear as the unanimity of Tradition” (CCC 328).
As for guardian angels, the Church also affirms their reality and mission. The Catechism states, “From its beginning until death, human life is surrounded by their watchful care and intercession. ‘Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life'” (CCC 336). The idea here is clear: from the moment you’re born to the moment you die, a guardian angel is with you, guiding you toward a life of faith and closer to God.
Scriptural Basis
The concept of guardian angels has biblical roots. One of the most cited scriptures regarding guardian angels is from the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus says, “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 18:10). This suggests that even “little ones”—children—have angels that are in communion with God and intercede on their behalf.
Daily Guidance and Protection
So, what does your guardian angel do every day? In simple terms, your guardian angel is like a shepherd or a guide. Their main job is to guide you toward good and away from evil. They’re always trying to point you in the direction of God’s will for your life.
Remember, your guardian angel sees the face of God, meaning they know what’s truly good for you. They’re not just making guesses. They actually know what God wants for you, and they do their best to guide you in that direction.
Intercession and Prayer
Your guardian angel isn’t just an observer; they’re an intercessor. They pray for you. This doesn’t replace your own prayers or the need to ask for God’s guidance directly, but it does provide additional spiritual support. The idea is that your guardian angel continually stands before God, asking Him to help you, protect you, and guide you.
Is My Guardian Angel Watching My Every Move?
Some folks might find it a bit uncomfortable to think that someone, even an angel, is watching them all the time. But the role of a guardian angel isn’t to spy on you; it’s to be a helper in your journey toward God. So, it’s not about monitoring your every move in a creepy way. It’s more about being there to assist you, especially in times of need or spiritual challenge.
Can I Communicate with My Guardian Angel?
It’s a common practice among many Catholics to pray to their guardian angels. The Church encourages this as a way to foster a deeper relationship with your angelic protector. Remember, though, the guardian angel is a creature created by God and should never replace God in your life. The angel’s role is to point you toward Him, not to become a focus of devotion themselves.
Universal Teaching Versus Theological Opinion
Everything mentioned above about the roles and functions of guardian angels is consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church. However, you may come across various theological opinions or cultural traditions regarding angels. While these can enrich our understanding and devotion, they should not be confused with the universal teachings of the Church. Always refer back to authoritative sources like the Catechism or the Bible for the foundational truths about guardian angels.
Conclusion
Guardian angels are more than just a comforting thought or a nice idea. They’re a reality acknowledged by the Catholic Church and grounded in Scripture. They guide us, protect us, and intercede for us every day. Being aware of their constant presence in our lives can be a source of great comfort and strength. So the next time you hear someone say that angels are watching over you, know that it’s not just a figure of speech—it’s a profound truth that can deeply enrich your spiritual life.