Rule of Benedict 22
March 20, 2009
In case you haven’t followed these comments from the beginning, what you read in these posts on the Rule of Benedict, are my simple reflections by way of journaling through the Rule. I’m no expert in monastic living, Catholic theology, or Benedict. I am inspired and drawn to comment on the Rule of Benedict, as a discipline for journaling. My comments are mostly my own but at times they are inspired by Norvene Vest’s running commentary on the Rule called Preferring Christ: A Devotional Commentary on the Rule of St Benedict. When I quote I give due credit.
Chapter 3 continues and ends with verses 7-13 (The translator, Fr Luke Dysinger, OSB entitled this chapter Summoning the Community for Counsel):
Let all, therefore, follow the Rule in all things as their guide, and from it let no one rashly turn aside. Let no one in the monastery follow the will of his own heart: nor let anyone presume insolently to contend with his abbot, either within or without the monastery. But if he should dare to do so, let him be subjected to the Rule. The abbot himself, however, must do everything with the fear of God, and in observance of the Rule: Knowing that he will have without doubt to render to God, the most just judge, an account of all his judgments.
If it happens that less important matters have to be transacted for the advantage of the monastery, let him take counsel with the seniors only, as it is written: Do all things with counsel, and you will not afterwards repent of it (Sir 32:24).
Comments: The Rule to live by for Benedict is an elaboration on the Law of Love, the Rule that must govern all Christian relationships. Sobering. In John 13:35 (and too many other places to name) Jesus describes and prescribes the life of community, loving relationships between disciples glorifying God. This Rule of love attracts others to God and to Christ.
Here’s a way of life (A Rule) not many of us adopt because of our rampant individualism and misunderstanding of freedom: Live well in communities of loving relationships, live willingly and satisfied under the authority of someone who has much input and guidance into our lives, and live by a well defined rhythm of life (or common commitments) that defines and trains us as loving apprentices of Jesus in the life of the kingdom.
Lectio: Living in obedience to God is desired. Living into the spiritual direction of another human being causes chafing in me. But it is one thing that is needful.
Prayer: Lord, you have placed many in my path who can input of the abundance of the Spirit into my lives, and many who are in tune with you to give counsel from the ancient paths. Thank you. Make me a completed listener, hearing with my head, heart, and in obedience. Amen, Lord, have mercy.
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