Chapter 73: This Rule is only a beginning
We, however, can only blush with shame when we reflect on the negligence and inadequacy of the monastic lives we lead. (From para. 1 of Ch. 73 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)
I think my negligence and inadequacy would cause me to give up, if I hadn't experienced, over time, the grace of finding God hidden within my weaknesses. Surely this grace must be one of the fruits of meditation.
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” goes the saying. My ego will tell me, Lord that following you is impossible for someone like me, with all my faults and limitations. Following you is impossible, you affirm, if and when I am relying on my strength alone. Your prescription is simple, but not easy: turn and become as a little child. Toddle along happily, hand in hand with you, my Father. Begin. Practice. Take the single step that is today. Learn again what St. Paul meant when he wrote: “When I am weak, then I am strong.” Enjoy, tiny one!
ReplyDelete“Whoever you are, therefore, who are hastening to the heavenly homeland, fulfill with the help of Christ this minimum Rule which we have written for beginners…” I am very thankful for the gift of this Rule. Looking back at the year that was, the Rule helped me have a more meaningful faith journey… Yes, I was and am always a beginner but this time each beginning is a moment of renewed faith.
ReplyDelete