"Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon…"
– Revelation 12:7
In the face of rebellion and pride, Saint Michael the Archangel stood as the ultimate servant of God. His name, “Michael,” translates to "Who is like God?" — a question that has echoed down the centuries as a bold declaration of faith that no one is like God. Saint Michael’s unending stand against evil and loyalty to the Divine Will make him a model of courage and strength for Catholics worldwide.
But what does it mean for Catholics to live by the motto "Serviam" — or "I will serve"? The answer lies in embracing a life of humble service to God, particularly when faced with temptation or doubt.
The Battle Between Good and Evil
The Book of Revelation (12:7-9) describes Saint Michael’s defining moment: He leads the heavenly forces against Satan and his army, casting the rebellious angels out of heaven. This cosmic battle symbolizes the ongoing spiritual warfare between good and evil in the world and within our hearts.
Catholic tradition tells us that Satan, in his pride, declared, "Non serviam!" — "I will not serve!" — rejecting God’s plan for salvation. In response, Saint Michael proclaimed, "Who is like God?!" as a reminder that no one and nothing can ever rival God's power and glory. St. Michael’s rallying cry for faithfulness to the Creator is a powerful example today.
By embracing the cry of "Serviam," we declare our willingness to serve God in all circumstances, especially when it’s difficult or when the world tempts us to stray from His path.
Five Reasons Catholics Love Saint Michael the Archangel
Catholics have a deep devotion to Saint Michael for many reasons, all of which highlight his pivotal role in spiritual warfare, protection and faithfulness.
1. Saint Michael is a steadfast defender of the Catholic Church.
Saint Michael has been invoked as a guardian of the Church throughout history. Popes, including Pope St. Leo XIII, encouraged devotion to him to safeguard the Church from spiritual and worldly dangers.
In 1884, after a vision in which Pope St. Leo XIII heard Satan boasting to God that he could destroy the Church in 75 to 100 years, he wrote the powerful prayer we say after every Mass and when we need Saint Michael’s protection:
Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil; May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, dnd do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and all evil spirits who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen.
2. Saint Michael is a protector against evil.
He’s the leader of the heavenly army who defeated Satan and his forces. As a mighty defender against spiritual and physical threats, Catholics often turn to him for protection from harm, temptation, and demonic forces.
3. He commands the heavenly hosts.
We Catholics admire and strive to imitate Saint Michael’s loyalty to God. In choosing to serve God, Saint Michael reminds us that our allegiance should always be to the divine, no matter the opposition we face. If God and Saint Michael are on our side, what is there to fear?
4. He is the patron saint of soldiers and law enforcement.
As a warrior angel, Saint Michael is the patron protector of military personnel, police officers, first responders and anyone who risks their life for the safety of others. His bravery and willingness to serve even in dangerous situations make him a beloved figure for those who defend others.
5. Saint Michael is our holy helper at the hour of death.
Catholic tradition teaches that Saint Michael assists souls at the moment of death, guiding them toward heaven and protecting them from the forces of evil. His intercession at this critical time makes him a comforting figure, especially for those facing illness or nearing the end of life. Many Catholics pray for Saint Michael’s presence at their final hour, trusting him to deliver them from the power of Satan.
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Are You Ready to Live a Life of Service?
When we adopt "Serviam" as our motto, we follow Saint Michael’s footsteps. “I will serve” is a commitment to follow God with humility and courage, even when life and the fallen angels test our faith. Just as Saint Michael cast down the dragon from heaven, God calls us to battle against the temptations and evils in our lives.
By calling on Saint Michael to intercede for us, we align ourselves with his unshakeable faith and bold declaration: "Who is like God!” In doing so, we reject the pride and rebellion that Satan represents and instead embrace the virtue of humble service.
We can follow Saint Michael’s example in every temptation and challenge by crying out, “Serviam!”
Don’t forget that in times of difficulty, spiritual attack, or doubt, Saint Michael always stands by our side, defending us as he did the heavenly hosts and guiding us toward the eternal light of Christ.
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