Chapter 7: The value of humility (paragraph 13)
The sixth step of humility for monks or nuns is to accept without complaint really wretched and inadequate conditions so that when faced with a task of any kind they would think of themselves as poor workers not worthy of consideration and repeat to God the verse of the psalm: I am of no account and lack understanding, no better than a beast in your sight. Yet I am always in your presence. (Para. 13 of Ch. 7 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)
I think St. Benedict writes a long and harsh passage to describe what is actually a liberating situation: detachment and selfless service -- a poverty made grand by the presence of God.
I think St. Benedict writes a long and harsh passage to describe what is actually a liberating situation: detachment and selfless service -- a poverty made grand by the presence of God.
To be content with my situation or to accept it without complaint does not come easy to me when times are challenging. But I know its necessity. I am reminded of it each day as I return to the daily recitation of the mantra. My call is to be content with the poverty of the little word and not be distracted by the possibility of more attractive paths that appear to be constantly on offer. I pray to be able to continue to see this.
ReplyDelete“A poor worker . . . not worthy of consideration . . . of no account . . . no better than a beast . . .”: Who, me? How dare you! screams my ego. Such a contrast my arrogance and rebelliousness to you, Lord. You invite me to learn what it is to become meek and humble of heart, like you. You, Lord and Master, got down on your hands and knees and washed your disciples’ smelly feet, these men who would all abandon, betray or deny you.
ReplyDeleteHow necessary is the fifth step of humility of facing the truth of myself always. It is not a one time event. I can easily become delusional with thoughts of "if only". If only I was younger with more energy than I would.... If only I was there instead of here than I could....If only I was a better speaker than I could persuade the world. "Where I place you; what I have given you; the love I pour out on you everyday, why is that not enough for you?" These are the questions that I can hear God asking me. How do I answer? No, that's not enough? What an ungrateful wretch that makes me. Rather, knowing what I am and learning about myself everyday, Lord, grant me the grace to receive your gift of love everyday where I am, trusting in your will for me here and now with a joyful heart that is content to be in your presence always. You have given me the Rule of Benedict as my guide and the way of meditation as a way of drawing me closer to you. Help me to be truly grateful. amen.
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