First Epistle to the Corinthians

To present some examples from among the heathen: Many kings and princes, in times of pestilence, when instructed by an oracle, have given themselves up to death so that by their own blood they might deliver their fellow citizens from destruction. Many have left their own cities, so that rebellion might be ended within them. We know many among ourselves who have given themselves up to bonds in order to ransom others. Many have surrendered themselves to slavery, so that with the price they received for themselves, they might provide food for others. Many women, strengthened by the grace of God, have performed numerous courageous acts. The blessed Judith, when her city was besieged, asked the elders for permission to go into the camp of the strangers; and, exposing herself to danger, she went out for the love she had for her country and people under siege; and the Lord delivered Holofernes into the hands of a woman. Esther, too, being perfect in faith, exposed herself to no less danger in order to deliver the twelve tribes of Israel from impending destruction. Through fasting and humility, she entreated the everlasting God, who sees all things; and He, perceiving the humility of her spirit, delivered the people for whom she had faced peril.