“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits.” (Mt 7:15–16a)
The Lord does not leave us in the dark about the dangers that lie in wait on our path of discipleship. It would be unthinkable for Him not to do so, for otherwise we would easily lull ourselves into a false sense of security. As a good shepherd, He not only protects us but also gives us criteria by which we can recognize false prophets.
From this moment on, the tide of the war turned in favor of the French crown. The decisive event had taken place: the Dauphin, Charles VII, had received Joan and had been convinced that she was sent by God, and the Church authorities had agreed as well. Thus God could carry out His plan.
Joan’s arrival in Orléans was eagerly awaited not only by the besieged population but also strengthened the king’s soldiers in particular. The presence of the Maid, with her unfailing confidence, gave the French army new strength and awakened them from hopelessness.
Joan herself carried no weapon and killed no one. Yet her courage and determination—being at the head of the army even in seemingly hopeless situations—continually lifted the soldiers’ spirits. This happened even when military undertakings at first seemed unlikely to succeed but were ultimately brought to a successful conclusion.
Instead of a weapon, the Maid had a banner made, as her confessor Jean Pasquerel reported, who accompanied her at her request until her later capture in Compiègne. He recounts:
