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Even angels can’t really see God
St. Augustine, quoting St. Jerome, tells us that we will never really know everything about God, because that is impossible for any creature. We’ll be made equal to the angels, but even angels can’t really see God’s true nature.
St. Jerome says, “The human eye cannot see God as he is in his own na- ture. And this is not true only of human beings. Neither angels, nor Thrones, nor Powers, nor Principalities, nor anything we can name can see God, for no creature can see its Creator.”
By these words this very learned man clearly shows what his opinion was on this subject in regard not only to the present life, but also to the life to come. However much the eyes of our body may be changed for the better, they will only be made equal to the eyes of the angels. Here, however, Jerome has told us that the nature of the Creator is invisible even to the angels, and to every creature without exception in Heaven.
But if a question should arise on this point, and someone should wonder whether we might not be superior to the angels, the mind of the Lord himself is plain from the words he uses in speaking of those who will rise again to the king- dom: “they are equal to angels” (Luke 20:36). –St. Augustine, Letter 148
IN GOD’S PRESENCE, CONSIDER . . .
If the angels can never see God in his true nature, certainly we can’t. But where would I look to get a good idea of what God looks like? How about at a homeless shelter? Or a nursing home?
CLOSING PRAYER
Remember, Lord, the poor, the widows, the orphans, and the needy who bear your image. Send your angels to guide them and minister to them in their troubles.
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