Chapter 29: The readmission of any who leave the monastery
Anyone who is guilty of serious wrong by the personal decision to leave the monastery but then asks to be received back again must first of all promise full reparation for leaving the monastery. (From Ch. 29 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)
I wonder what "full reparation" in this situation would be -- certainly not something material or financial. Maybe the kind of reparation of which Benedict speaks involves growth in self-knowledge, and transformation of consciousness in the one who left. That spiritual development could help heal the wounds to the community made by the trauma of disobedience and departure.
Lord Jesus, you do not crush the bruised reed nor quench the flickering candle. You forgive “seventy times seven”. Meditation and lectio and community help me to remember this in those moments when circumstances and the daily challenges of living sorely try my faith and hope and love.
ReplyDeleteTime and again, dear Lord I promise you the reparation of my sins. But I just can,t keep my promise. Thus, the words of Fr. Benedict to "start again" each time I fall ... I need to start strong again whenever I feel that I am backsliding in my meditation, with the grace of the Lord. For only thy grace Oh Lord, can heal the wounds of my sinfulness and weaknesses.
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