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Continuing Catholic Education. 2011-2012 February 26 2012. Judith - Overview. Background – Israel under siege of Assyrians Timing – Unknown Context – A Great Woman standing up Firm Main Themes Israel under Trial- Again Judith, a widow, comes to Rescue
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Continuing Catholic Education 2011-2012 February 26 2012
Judith - Overview • Background – Israel under siege of Assyrians • Timing – Unknown • Context – A Great Woman standing up Firm • Main Themes • Israel under Trial- Again • Judith, a widow, comes to Rescue • God’s providence shown through ordinary people leading to great victory
Story of Siege • Nebuchadnezzar’s reign over Assyria ? • Holofernes as commander-in-chief • Taking over Israel’s neighbors • Judah was surrounded by Holofernes’ army • Joachim and Uzziah as leaders of Israel • A nation at prayer (4:9-15) • Achoir ‘s testimony about Israel and their merciful God • 34 days of seige and its effects in Israel • Uziah asks for five more days (34 +5) !!
Judith • A widow, living in the upper room • Following God’s commandments • Judith’s message to her people • Judith’s conviction and Trust in God (8:25-27) • Judith leaving Israel and heading to Holofernes • Judith Encounter with Holofernes
Holofernes, Who? • Holofernes - External • Powers that question our values • Media that influences our thinking • Alcoholism and drugs • Holofernes – Personal • Lack of Will to stand up for what is right • Our perception of being ‘busy’ all the time • ‘Lack of Time’ • Peer Pressure, for adults
Judith and Me • We need to get out of the Upper Room to heed to God’s Call- To meet ‘Holofernes’ • In God’s roll call nobody is left out. Everyone of us can do great things for God • Courage comes from Holy Spirit • Courage-To do What is right even when it is difficult • Tenacity even when faced with seemingly impossible challenges, like David • With God we can encounter ‘Holofernes’ in our lives