Rule of Benedict 17
March 9, 2009
Chapter 2:16-22 of the Rule of Benedict speaks to me regarding the issue of discernment of those we lead. Perhaps something else will grab you.
How do you see how others in your circles of influence are growing in Christ? Beside prayer, what do you look for as marks in a person who is growing in Christ?
The abbot is not to make any distinction of person in the monastery. He should not love one more than another unless he finds one better in good actions and obedience. A free-born man is not to be put before a slave who becomes a monk, except for some other reasonable cause. Although, if justice requires it, the abbot may see fit to change anyone’s rank. Otherwise let each keep to his regular place, because whether we a re slaves or free, we are all one in Christ (Gal 3:28), Eph 6:8) and serve alike in the army of the one Lord; for with God there in son partiality among peersons (Rom 2:11).
Solely in this only are we distinguished in his sight: if we are found to surpass others in good works and in humility. Therefore, let the abbot show equal love to all and impose on all the same discipline, according to their merits.
Lectio: Discernment is the thought that kept grabbing my attention here. Though the word is not in the text, I am reading it into the abbot may see fit. This ability to see, I am calling discernment. How can I see unless Someone show me and how can Someone show me unless I am paying attention closely?
Comment: It is a difficult thing to measure spiritual growth (in others, more than in myself). But the fruit of the spirit is observable in the life (interactions between Chrstians) of the commnity. Norvene Vest, the commentator on the Rule, speaks of the “work of the heart the hidden action of amenability to the Spirit’s graces, the evolving disposition toward the mind of Christ–all of these are manifest for the one who has eyes to see and ears to hear.” Norvene mentions two concrete evidences that Benedict will elaborate on later: Good works, and Humilty/obedience.
Prayer: Lord, help me to see your work in me. Help me to see your work in those around me. Help to rejoice when I see it. And to weep at the absence of evidennce. Amen. Lord, have mercy.
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