The Catechism of the Catholic Church, in describing angels, states, "From the beginning until death, human life is surrounded by their watchful care and intercession". (CCC, 336). This description of the angels in God's salvation plan is aptly highlighted in today's scripture readings.

The reading from Exodus states that God sends an angel ahead of the people of Israel to guard and lead them on their journey to the Promised land. The psalmist proclaims that angels are commanded by God to accompany a believer in his or her daily life.

In the gospel passage, Jesus teaches that the angels of the "little ones" are constantly in the presence of God. Surely, such images of angels cannot, but make us feel self-assured that each of us has an angel beside us.

But let us be aware that angels, as faithful messengers and servants of God, carry out His commands so that the divine plan of salvation is fulfilled. It means they are also sent to warn, admonish and if necessary, mete out punishment as God commands them to.

This is why God advises the people to "give him (the angel) reverence and listen to all that he says" and offer him no defiance "for my name is in him".

This is why Jesus warns the disciples, "See that you never despise any of these little ones..." After all, they will be present at Christ's return and will serve at his judgement.