Chapter 35: Weekly servers in the kitchen and at table (paragraphs 3-4)
One hour before the time of a meal those serving in the kitchen and at table should each receive a drink and some bread in addition to their regular portion. This will help them to serve the community at mealtime without stress and without murmuring about their lot. (From para. 3 of Ch. 35 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)
What are some simple ways to relieve stress in my life, so that I can be fully present in my service? How can I check my own cynical, judgmental, complaining behavior, however subtle, that harms the spirit of the community I serve?
For me this is another example of Benedict's movement away from rigidity and into possibility, humanity and the love of God. I can be stressed about what I think I should be doing in the name of Church, Commandments, Dogma and Beliefs easily forgetting the unlimited opportunity of love that I can have for each human being by bringing joy and hope to any situation.
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