Angels – literally "messengers" in Greek – bear the task of guiding and nurturing God's children.
The Angel Gabriel, one of two angels mentioned in the Bible, champions a message that God never leaves nor fosakes his chosen people.
Who is the Angel Gabriel
Gabriel means "strong man of God" or "God's man." Gabriel brings strength and comfort while communicating information vital to God.
Gabriel is known as the angel of incarnation (human frailty as morals) because he announced Jesus' birth. He is also known as the angel of mercy because he waits with Mary and comforts her after she receives life changing news from God.
What Does the Angel Gabriel Do?
In the Old Testament, Gabriel touched the prophet Daniel, giving him a vision of the seventy weeks before the coming of Christ (Daniel 9).
Gabriel is most famous, though, for telling Mary, Mother of God, that she would bear Jesus Christ. This passage in Luke is known as the annunciation (literally "the telling"). Gabriel shares the news and waits as Mary praises God.
The Angel Gabriel is commonly depicted beside Mary, telling her she will bear Jesus. Often, Gabriel appears effeminate in comparison with Michael and his armor to emphasize Gabriel's comforting and gentle nature.
In both Daniel and Luke, Gabriel shares information and comforts those involved to do God's will. All Christians struggle with feeling lonely, afraid, and wondering where God is in their lives. The Angel Gabriel gives messages as God decrees and comforts all who are seeking.
Gabriel's presence with Mary during that difficult time reminds Christians that they are never alone, no matter how much they feel they cannot bear the news that God has given them.
Devotion with the Angel Gabriel and Luke 1:26-38
The following devotion offers an opportunity to seek God through scripture with the Angel Gabriel. Settle comfortably for at least twenty minutes with no distractions, being open to God's presence and guidance.
- Read how Gabriel brought Mary the news of Jesus' birth in Luke 1:26-38.
- Recall an event that has changed everything upside down, as Gabriel's news did to Mary's world. Reflect on how that event has brought meaning and purpose, a deeper relationship with God. Journal about this event, or just meditate on it for a while so that all the details crystalize.
- Thank God for specific blessings related to the event, either in writing or aloud. See Mary's specific response to Gabriel's message for inspiration.
- Spend several minutes in silence, open to any new messages God might have.
- Like Mary, share hopes for the future in writing or aloud. If appropriate, share those hopes with special people and have a conversation about how God might be working in the present to bring those dreams alive.
Note that God comforted Mary in her time of trial with the Angel Gabriel. Invite the Angel Gabriel to offer news, comfort, and security anytime by remembering Mary and giving thanks to God.
For another devotion on the theme of angels, try Praying with the Angel Michael: A Devotion on Revelation 12.
Sources:
- Holy Bible, New Revised Standard Version. Oremus Bible Browser, 2009.
- Pope, Hugh. "St. Gabriel the Archangel," in The Catholic Encyclopedia. Vol. 6. New York: Robert Appleton Company, 1909. 24 Apr. 2009.
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