Rule of Benedict 51
April 23, 2010
Chapter 7: 39-43 continue Benedict’s understanding of how to climb the ladder of humility. He says:
And secure in their hope of the divine reward, they go forward with joy, saying: But in all these things we overcome, through the one who has loved us (Romans 8:37). And so in another place Scripture says: You have tested us, O God; you have tried us as silver is tried by fire; you have led us into the snare and laid tribulation on our backs (Psalm 66:10-11). And in order to show that we ought to be under a superior, it goes on to say: You have placed people over our heads (Psalm 66:12).
Moreover, fulfilling the precept of the Lord by patience in adversities and injuries, they who are struck on one cheek offer the other; to someone who takes away their coat they leave also their cloak; and being forced to walk one mile, they go two (Matthew 5:39-41). With Paul the Apostle they bear with false brothers, and bless those who curse them (2 Corinthians 11:26; 1 Corinthians 4:12).
Comment: This weaving of Scripture is typical in the Rule. God is no softie when it comes to our submission to him and to others. We Christians triumph over our enemies in the same way the apostles and Jesus did: by living in humility and submission to God and others. That’s the way of life with God and his followers. Teresa of Avila let her inner voice slip out: “If this is the way how you treat your friends, Lord, no wonder you have so few of them!” (Cited by Norvene Vest in Preferring Christ)
Prayer: Lord, humility is learned in humiliation. My choice is obey or to lift up my head. Teach me to obey that I may not sin against you. Lord, have mercy on me.
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