The modesty of Daniel; Angels: Day 092

The modesty of Daniel; Angels: Day 092 October 21, 2016

angels_ephrem_1

The modesty of Daniel

Daniel, says St. Ephrem the Syrian, was afraid even to approach the angel he saw. How can some philosophers pretend that they’ve figured out everything about the Son of God?

Daniel saw wondrous living creatures. He also saw that the Ancient of Days was sitting in glory (Dan. 7:9). He approached the living creatures, because he wanted to ask and learn. But he did not approach to search into the glory of the Most High.

Fools have left searching creation and run off to the Creator to search out who he is. Daniel saw one of the angels and was frightened (Dan. 8:16). He did not approach to search into him. He could not bear the sound of his voice. He was not even able to listen.

Daniel did not look on the minister; who can look on the One to whom he ministered?

The sea that saw the sign of him feared, and fled back, and was moved; it was divided into two heaps (Exod. 14:21-22).

Daniel, when he asked about the words, heard that they were sealed, and that it was not fitting to search out the hidden things of the future. Who will dare to search into the Treasury in whom all knowledge dwells? The First-Born is the Treasury of the Father, in whom is all his counsel. Who is up to the task of searching into him? –St. Ephrem the Syrian, Rhythm 8

IN GOD’S PRESENCE, CONSIDER . . .

Where do I draw the line between what I can know and what I can only speculate on? Do I imitate the modesty of Daniel when he was faced with the angel?

CLOSING PRAYER

Lord, I am not worthy even to look on your angels, but I long for the day when you will be revealed to me.

____________________________________________________________________________________
Remember to subscribe to my feed so you will not miss a day! This recurring feature at The Catholic Blogger is possible through the cooperation of author Mike Aquilina and publisher Saint Benedict Press. To get your own copy of this book, click below.


Browse Our Archives