“But since God had commanded me to go, I must do it. And since God had commanded it, had I had a hundred fathers and a hundred mothers, and had I been a king’s daughter, I would have gone.”-Joan of Arc
Of all the things that Joan of Arc embodied, one word can sum up the foundation of who she was: Faithful
Coming from humble beginnings, Joan of Arc was born into a peasant family in eastern France around 1412. At the age of 12, she claims to have been visited by St. Michael, St. Catherine, and St. Margaret, who advised her to drive out the English and bring the Dauphin to Reims for his coronation.
At age 18, Joan said she had received visions from God instructing her to support Charles VII and recover France from English domination late in the Hundred Years’ War. She gained recognition after the siege was lifted in only nine days. Her tactical skill and expert strategies afforded the army much success.
Despite her accomplishments, many accused her of heresy and witchcraft, leading to her capture, trial and subsequent punishment of death. Posthumously, she was given a second trial in 1456, during which time her name was cleared and she was declared a martyr.
The spirit of this young woman was revered, admired and feared. The work in her short life led the French army to victory over the British and 500 years later, granted her the title of Saint by the Catholic church.
Joan of Arc showed tremendous mental and physical strength. Her faith was unshakable. She followed what she believed was the voice of God leading her and continued to fight valiantly, even after being wounded several times. Like Joan of Arc, we should listen to that still, small voice that speaks to us, knowing that we are being led to something greater than ourselves. Take on the challenge that has been put before you, then have unshakable faith. What will YOU fight for?
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