Believe what you will

History hasn't been able to disprove Jeanne d’Arc's claim that she was contacted by angels. Did Archangel Michael or the Virgin Mary advise her to command the French army? With no military experience, this peasant girl achieved the unthinkable.  Her guidance enabled French generals to liberate her county and cause English invaders to flee.  This conflict had lasted generations.

At age 13, Joan spposedly heard a voice, as if someone spoke in her ear.  She also described a blaze of light. Joan continued to sew and spin as usual, yet she later claimed to receive regular heavenly messages from angelic counselors St. Michael, St. Margaret, St. Catherine, and others.

By age 16, the voices had begun to urge her to find the French Dauphin, Charles, whose armies were waging a losing war against the English for control of France. She actually tried to meet one of Charles’ generals, but she was rudely sent away.  Angelic voices became even more insistent. 

Joan attempted to consult the general. On her way, she received a vision: The French would suffer a major defeat by the English, in the “Battle of the Herrings,” in the town of Orléans. When her prediction materialized, days later, she was able to speak with Charles himself. Her advising enabled French military strategy to evolve. She also fought fearlessly on front lines.

The Church authorities of her era didn't believe she communicated with God, the Virgin Mary or angels.  She refused to recant and prayed. Joan of Arc was eventually burned at the stake.

Joan of Arc's story reveals guardian angels enter our lives to influence our thoughts to help others. Thay may not always protect us from all danger, but they supposedly reveal the will of God. We can benefit from their companionship and assistance when we seek it.  Believe what you will.