Rule of Benedict 30
May 17, 2009
Why do you think we grumble and speak badly about others?
Scripture is clear about disliking grumbling. In fact we are commanded to do all things without grumbling (complaining) or arguing (Phillippians 2:13). We are also told to speak evil of no one.
Chapter 4:39-40 of Benedict’s Rule echoes these biblical commandments: Do not murmur or speak evil of others.
Living in close proximity to others is challenging to the life of faith. Benedict knew it. He knew that complaining is natural to us. Maintaining unity and closeness with other people without conflict is impossible. The question is how to deal with relational issues directly without complaining to a third party? I find it much easier to murmur or complain than to suffer silently or speak openly to the one I want to complain about. I let off steam and feel justified for doing it.
There is a better way says the word of God, and Benedict echoes it as a way of living with others. Don’t complain or speak evil of others.
Prayer: O to go one day without complaining would be a wonderful gift from your heart to mine, dear Lord. Be pleased, O you who remained silent before your accusers and “crucicfiers”, to grant me one day at a time the freedom not to grumble or speak evil of no one. Amen. Christ, have mercy.
Comments
Got something to say?
-
Subscribe To MO
