The Trial on the Mountain – Part 5
Main Idea
This meditation discusses the angels and their relationship with the Old Testament and the New Testament, explaining their frequent appearances in the life of the Lord Jesus Christ, from the Annunciation and His birth to His Resurrection and Ascension. His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains that angels are ministering spirits whom God sends to carry out His will and serve human beings. Angels are characterized by purity, holiness, power, beauty, and intelligence; therefore, they represent an ideal spiritual model from which we should learn. The meditation also points out that there are different ranks and orders of angels, each with its own gifts and particular works. Some praise God and surround His throne, while others serve human beings on earth.
Spiritual Message
The meditation explains that angels perform many works for the sake of human beings. They help, protect, guide, and rescue them from dangers according to God’s will. It emphasizes that God’s care for human beings is not limited to what they can see with their eyes, but also surrounds them through spiritual powers working for their salvation. It explains the meaning of the Seraphim as a symbol of burning divine love, which transforms the heart and consumes the love of the world and sinful desires. It also emphasizes that angels are powerful in their battle against Satan and that human beings can trust in God’s help and the protection of His angels. However, the meditation warns against persisting in sin, because a holy life is in harmony with the pure nature of angels, while human beings distance themselves from this fellowship when they cling to evil.
Educational Lesson
The meditation invites us to imitate the angels in purity, holiness, obedience to God, and spiritual love. It explains that human beings can live a spiritual life on earth resembling the life of angels when they carry out God’s will and stay away from sin. It also encourages us to develop a spiritual relationship with the angels, as God’s servants and ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation. It further reminds us of the importance of practical love for others, because God may send people to help or guide us without our realizing their true role.
Practical Application
We should strive to live a life of purity and holiness and allow the love of God to transform our thoughts, desires, and actions. We should seek God’s help and the protection of His angels, trusting in His care for us during tribulations and temptations. We should also stay away from sins that hinder our spiritual lives and seek to carry out God’s will and serve others. The meditation invites us to remember the angels in our prayers and church life and to prepare for eternal life, where we will share fellowship with the angels and the spirits of the departed saints. Finally, it encourages us to become like the angels in our service to God and humanity, becoming instruments of goodness and salvation on earth.
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