Chapter 2: Gifts needed by an abbot or abbess (paragraphs 8-9)
It is above all important that monastic superiors should not underrate or think lightly of the salvation of the souls committed to them by giving too much attention to transient affairs of this world which have no lasting value. (From para. 8 of Ch. 2 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry OSB, 1997.)
Am I in the presence of God as I move throughout my day, or am I in the fabrications of my ego?
Am I in the presence of God as I move throughout my day, or am I in the fabrications of my ego?
“Our transformation is not less than theosis, divinization: ‘the harvest of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, fidelity, gentleness and self-control’(Gal 5:5).” (Laurence Freeman, “Jesus The Teacher Within” Ch 11). I am awestruck by the pricelessness of the gift of faith, faith in the Reality and exact nature of the transformation you have called me to, Abba. I am more awestruck that you call me to bring, in turn, this same gift to others, to be you, an Abba/“abbot” myself to whomever I meet today. You call me to join in the harvest.
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