Chapter 65: The prior or prioress of the monastery (paragraphs 2-3)
We have no doubt, therefore, that it is best in the interests of preserving peace and charity that the authority for the whole administration of the monastery should rest with the abbot or abbess. (From para. 2 of Ch. 65 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)
I have no doubt, and know from my own experience, that it is best in the interests of preserving peace and charity that the authority for my whole being is rooted in the ground of my heart.
Any discussion of authority and obedience reminds me of how much my ego hates being told what to do. How much of me, Abba, still reacts automatically to even the gentlest, most loving suggestions of how I might improve, with Lucifer’s “I will not serve!” How easily I can give lip service to the “Thy will be done” of the Lord’s Prayer. How hard-headed I can still be. But your grace, in the silence, stillness and simplicity of meditation, gently penetrates, calms and heals this stubborn “testa dura” of mine. It opens my heart, makes me a teachable disciple once again. Just for today, now, once more: Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!
ReplyDeleteThank you very much Mary for these wise words, "it is best in the interest of preserving peace and charity that the authority for my whole being is rooted in the ground of my heart." I need that very badly as I still struggle in putting my head at the service of my heart...
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