Introduction:
The Israelites ready themselves for battle. They blocked the mountain passes, fortified the summit of all the higher peaks, and placed roadblocks across the plains. When Holofernes, the commander of the opposing forces, heard about the Israelites’ defensive preparations, he became furious. He then summoned all the Moabite rulers, all the Ammonite generals, and all the governors of the region along the Mediterranean coast. He sought detailed information about the Israelites, wanting to understand his adversary. (Jdt 5:11)
Chapter’s Theme: Understanding my Opponent
Achior, the leader of all the Ammonites, provided Holofernes with crucial insights about the unique relationship between God and the Israelites. He explained that when the Israelites followed God’s laws, He protected and defended them in battle. However, when they were disobedient, God allowed harsh consequences upon them.
Achior strongly advised Holofernes only to consider an attack if the Israelites were guilty of wrongdoing. But if they were innocent, their God would shield them. Moreover, he warned Holofernes to be wise and keep his distance.
Holofernes ignored Achior’s counsel, and instance was pleased with the response of his army: “We are not afraid of the Israelites, for they are a powerless people, incapable of a strong defense. Let us, therefore, attack them; your great army, Lord Holofernes, will swallow them up.”(Jdt 5: 23-24)
Lessons learned:
(1) Listen to the counsel of wise individuals to avoid misery.
(2) The Lord, my God, will always defend His servants in times of need.
(3) The Lord treats you according to your deed.
(4) Arrogance leads to mistaken decisions and unforeseeable outcomes.
Introspection:
- Do you trust the Lord’s justice? Since our concept of time and God’s are different, at times could be frustrating and challenging to wait for His perfect timing. Yet, trusting His Divine Mercy brings peace to my aching soul.
- How do you avoid unnecessary calamities? I avoid such situations by listening to the advice of wise and experienced individuals who genuinely care about my well-being.
- How do you distinguish between foolishness and success when planning your strategy? Hmm, a tough one for me. If I could live with the consequences of my worst-case scenario, I know it is the right decision. If not, then I need to tame my ego to avoid making foolish choices.