Castile trembled before a great host. On the eve of the decisive encounter at Las Navas de Tolosa, tradition relates that Saint Isidore appeared to King Alfonso VIII, pointing out a hidden way through the Sierra Morena. Taking the path, the Christian army surprised the enemy and turned the course of the campaign. The Church receives such national memories with sobriety, yet the narrative has long consoled the faithful: God does not abandon peoples who seek justice and mercy; He raises humble intercessors to guide the powerful. The peasant of Madrid—now a citizen of heaven—becomes a quiet counsellor in a king’s extremity.
Prayer: Lord of hosts, guide rulers and peoples in the ways of justice and peace. Grant that we may walk the hidden path of Thy will. Saint Isidore, intercede for our lands.
Scripture: Psalm 20; Isaiah 30:21.
