Chapter 43: Late-comers for the work of God or in the refectory (paragraphs 4-5)
In the refectory all must come to table together so as to offer their grace together as one community.
(From para. 4 of Ch. 43 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry OSB, 1997.)
Just as "it's not my meditation", it's not "my" grace, either. Gratitude and praise may arise from my own heart, but I truly believe the most attentive gratitude reflects my unity with others, and with all of creation.
Praying the Divine Office at set times at least twice a day draws me into a current that sweeps from one corner of the world to another, to communities and people unseen and unknown. Coming together "at table" affirms for me that it is a coming together at a great banquet, a feast celebrating the love and wonder of God. Why would I want to stay away or be late? Benedict reminds me that I am needed as part of this great and invisible community.
ReplyDeleteI see the grace received in being a part of the whole. We are one body and as such are to arrive as a whole community.
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