The third step of humility is that a man submits to his superior in all obedience for the love of God, imitating the Lord of whom the Apostle says: He became obedient even to death (Phil 2:8) RB80.7.34
I like things MY way...I have always liked things MY way. MY way is generally best. There is a slight problem here, though. Most people I encounter feel the same about their system for doing things. So when there are so many different ways and all are the best, how to I decide what plan to follow to avoid chaos.
In the 3rd step of Humility, Benedict recommends obedience to legitimate authority for the love of God in keeping with Jesus' own obedience to the Father--an obedience that led to the Cross. That type of obedience definitely has a price...am I ready to be that obedient?
On my best days, I would like to say that I am ready to embrace another's way with only slight reservation...but that is only on my really awesome days. On most regular days, I am willing to at least consider obedience. How can I get more of those best days in my regular life?
LISTENING seems to be the key: listening to myself, to others, and to daily encounters opens me up to that obedience that I desire and of which Benedict speaks.
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Monday, January 31, 2011
Monday, January 24, 2011
Refraining From Good Words
Today, St. Benedict talks to us about silence and restraint of speech. In verse 1 of this chapter, Benedict asserts that there are times when even good words are to be foregone for the sake of silence. That sounds a little confusing to me...especially since I tend to be a person who loves to talk as much as possible. Why would I willingly refrain from speaking good words?
It's easy enough to understand the damage that can be done with false words, hurtful comments, and the truth that is used as a weapon against another rather than as a helpful tool...but not to say good words???
Maybe part of the key to this passage lies in understanding my attitude towards words. I often use words to avoid looking at hard issues within myself or listening to God speaking in the silence of my heart...in my prayer. It is much easier to distract myself with chatter and with trying to solve my own problems or help you solve yours than to sit still and listen to God's presence in my life. I need to remember that part of life's goal for me is not to have all the answers but to be at witness to God's presence in my life. I need to cultivate silence for that.
If I desire to be a person of depth and wisdom, I need to become familiar with silence and comfortable with it.
What am I doing to cultivate silence in my life today?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Please pray for the 55&Under All Federation Benedictine Sisters Gathering this weekend in Atchison, KS. Almost 100 professed Benedictine women from around the country will be gathering for prayer, friendship and education.
It's easy enough to understand the damage that can be done with false words, hurtful comments, and the truth that is used as a weapon against another rather than as a helpful tool...but not to say good words???
Maybe part of the key to this passage lies in understanding my attitude towards words. I often use words to avoid looking at hard issues within myself or listening to God speaking in the silence of my heart...in my prayer. It is much easier to distract myself with chatter and with trying to solve my own problems or help you solve yours than to sit still and listen to God's presence in my life. I need to remember that part of life's goal for me is not to have all the answers but to be at witness to God's presence in my life. I need to cultivate silence for that.
If I desire to be a person of depth and wisdom, I need to become familiar with silence and comfortable with it.
What am I doing to cultivate silence in my life today?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Please pray for the 55&Under All Federation Benedictine Sisters Gathering this weekend in Atchison, KS. Almost 100 professed Benedictine women from around the country will be gathering for prayer, friendship and education.
Friday, January 21, 2011
The Enclosure and Stability
The workshop where we are to toil faithfully at all these tasks is the enclosure of the monastery and stability in the community. RB80.4.78
We have reached the end of the chapter on The Tools of Good Works. After listing 77 verses worth of instructions on how to use the various tools and virtues of the spiritual craft, Benedict tells us what the workshop for the spiritual craft is--the monastery and stability. Stay exactly where I am and do the next appropriate task.
That seems simple but it is not easy. It is simple since there is only one thing I need to focus on to achieve the task. It is not easy in that maintaining focus can sometimes be strenuous work.
It is in staying right where I am, doing just what I am supposed to do that will bring me growth, virtue and true joy. Maintaining my focus during the rough periods that are sure to come and persevering to the end will bring eternal rewards and great growth. I just need to remain faithful to the task.
What am I doing today for my own growth?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
We have reached the end of the chapter on The Tools of Good Works. After listing 77 verses worth of instructions on how to use the various tools and virtues of the spiritual craft, Benedict tells us what the workshop for the spiritual craft is--the monastery and stability. Stay exactly where I am and do the next appropriate task.
That seems simple but it is not easy. It is simple since there is only one thing I need to focus on to achieve the task. It is not easy in that maintaining focus can sometimes be strenuous work.
It is in staying right where I am, doing just what I am supposed to do that will bring me growth, virtue and true joy. Maintaining my focus during the rough periods that are sure to come and persevering to the end will bring eternal rewards and great growth. I just need to remain faithful to the task.
What am I doing today for my own growth?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Thursday, January 20, 2011
God's Gaze
Hour by hour keep careful watch over all you do, aware that God's gaze is upon you, wherever you may be. RB80.4.48-49
I grew up with a very real sense that God is everywhere and is an active part of my life. Much of this sense was nurtured by my grandparents who would spend hours telling me about the saints and how the Christian life was part of everyday life.
When my grandmother would teach me about God being her father and Jesus being her brother...I took it literally. This understanding encouraged me to make my faith my own also as I matured.
Today, Benedict invites me to reexamine this thinking and find new ways in which I can make God's presence active for those whom I meet today.
Sr. Catherine, OSB
I grew up with a very real sense that God is everywhere and is an active part of my life. Much of this sense was nurtured by my grandparents who would spend hours telling me about the saints and how the Christian life was part of everyday life.
When my grandmother would teach me about God being her father and Jesus being her brother...I took it literally. This understanding encouraged me to make my faith my own also as I matured.
Today, Benedict invites me to reexamine this thinking and find new ways in which I can make God's presence active for those whom I meet today.
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Monday, January 17, 2011
Calling All to Counsel
In the monastery no one is to follow his own heart's desire, nor shall anyone presume to contend with his abbot defiantly, or outside the monastery. RB80.3.8-9
The good of the whole should outweigh the wants or desires of the individual. This is another way of saying, "I can't get my own way all the time. The good of the whole group will always take precedence."
As hard as it is to learn and accept this precept, it is one that is definitely needed for working well in groups--family, team, workplace, community. Without some compromise and dialogue on all sides, very little productive work can be accomplished.
While my natural tendency might be to throw a temper tantrum and let the world know just how unfair and miserable things are for me--having to submit my own desires and will, these tirades do little to better my situation or to help me build community.
It is in fully participating in the decision making process that I grow within the group and that the whole benefits from whatever wisdom I may have to share.
What am I doing today to improve the quality of community?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
The good of the whole should outweigh the wants or desires of the individual. This is another way of saying, "I can't get my own way all the time. The good of the whole group will always take precedence."
As hard as it is to learn and accept this precept, it is one that is definitely needed for working well in groups--family, team, workplace, community. Without some compromise and dialogue on all sides, very little productive work can be accomplished.
While my natural tendency might be to throw a temper tantrum and let the world know just how unfair and miserable things are for me--having to submit my own desires and will, these tirades do little to better my situation or to help me build community.
It is in fully participating in the decision making process that I grow within the group and that the whole benefits from whatever wisdom I may have to share.
What am I doing today to improve the quality of community?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Do Not Gloss Over Faults
He should not gloss over the sins of those who err, but cut them out while he can, as soon as they begin to sprout, remembering the fate of Eli, priest of Shiloh (1Sam2.11--4.18). RB80.2.26
The leader today is called to remember the fate of Eli and act accordingly with the community. The story referenced in this passage is an account of the evil deeds performed by the sons Eli, while he was priest of Shiloh. His sons would regularly abuse the power that was part of their office--disdain the Lord, steal from the sacrifice and abuse those who were coming to worship. Eli was not able to get his sons to change their bad behavior or reprove them. Therefore, God punished Eli and his sons for their deeds.
The abbot or superior is to be like the priest who was the guardian of the Temple. Keeping watch over the actions of all who worshiped.
Benedict reminds the abbot to call to the attention of the individual areas of concern that needed to be addressed. It is the responsibility of the leader to bring up faults that need amending and to support those who stray as they strive to change their ways. Neglecting to do so could endanger both the group and the individual. The leader does no one any favors by ignoring areas of growth.
As a community member, I also have a duty to respond honestly and to remain open to the call to growth. How am I growing today?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
The leader today is called to remember the fate of Eli and act accordingly with the community. The story referenced in this passage is an account of the evil deeds performed by the sons Eli, while he was priest of Shiloh. His sons would regularly abuse the power that was part of their office--disdain the Lord, steal from the sacrifice and abuse those who were coming to worship. Eli was not able to get his sons to change their bad behavior or reprove them. Therefore, God punished Eli and his sons for their deeds.
The abbot or superior is to be like the priest who was the guardian of the Temple. Keeping watch over the actions of all who worshiped.
Benedict reminds the abbot to call to the attention of the individual areas of concern that needed to be addressed. It is the responsibility of the leader to bring up faults that need amending and to support those who stray as they strive to change their ways. Neglecting to do so could endanger both the group and the individual. The leader does no one any favors by ignoring areas of growth.
As a community member, I also have a duty to respond honestly and to remain open to the call to growth. How am I growing today?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Good Works and Humility
Only in this are we distinguished in his sight: if we are found better than others in good works and in humility. RB80.2.21
I am always looking for that one thing which will set me apart from others...that special little thing that gives me the desired edge in life. Today, Benedict gives me insight into what sets me apart in community, on a team, in God's sight.
The secret: being better than others in good works and in humility. Doing what I am called to do; being who I was created to be and working diligently at that.
How can I accomplish this?
I am always looking for that one thing which will set me apart from others...that special little thing that gives me the desired edge in life. Today, Benedict gives me insight into what sets me apart in community, on a team, in God's sight.
The secret: being better than others in good works and in humility. Doing what I am called to do; being who I was created to be and working diligently at that.
How can I accomplish this?
- Doing the loving, caring thing...even when no one is watching.
- Doing the next appropriate thing quietly. I don't have to announce everytime I do something kind or unexpected for another.
- Offering to help out but not insisting on being the center of attention.
- Remembering that everything in life does not have to be about ME.
- Using my competitive nature to the best in doing good quietly and patiently.
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Teaching by Example
Furthermore, anyone who receives the name of abbot is to lead his disciples by a twofold teaching: he must point out to them all that is good and holy more by example than by words, proposing the commandments of the Lord to receptive disciples with words, but demonstrating God's instructions to the stubborn and the dull by a living example. RB80.2.11-12
We have all heard it said that actions speak louder than words. Today, Benedict takes a similar approach when addressing the leader about teaching God's ways. To those who are docile and agreeable teach through words; for those who might be more resistant teach through the example of your life--be a role model for others for the good.
When I was younger, I remember someone telling me once that I could take any of my elders as a role model--they could either show me what to do to have a happy and successful life or I could learn what not to do by learning from the mistakes of others. The choice is totally mine whether to follow the good example of others or the misguided example. I can choose my destiny everyday.
That idea has stuck with me as I have matured in community. It has also occurred to me that I can be that same kind of role model for others also. Do I want to be a model for the good of community or a model of what not to do?
I pray for the grace to consistently be a model of good and virtue. What kind of model am I today?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
We have all heard it said that actions speak louder than words. Today, Benedict takes a similar approach when addressing the leader about teaching God's ways. To those who are docile and agreeable teach through words; for those who might be more resistant teach through the example of your life--be a role model for others for the good.
When I was younger, I remember someone telling me once that I could take any of my elders as a role model--they could either show me what to do to have a happy and successful life or I could learn what not to do by learning from the mistakes of others. The choice is totally mine whether to follow the good example of others or the misguided example. I can choose my destiny everyday.
That idea has stuck with me as I have matured in community. It has also occurred to me that I can be that same kind of role model for others also. Do I want to be a model for the good of community or a model of what not to do?
I pray for the grace to consistently be a model of good and virtue. What kind of model am I today?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Monday, January 10, 2011
Holding the Place of Christ
In more than one place in the Rule, Benedict reminds us that the leader of the monastery or the group should be considered to stand in the place of Christ. That is an enormous task for anyone to consider.
In being in the place of Christ, I need to try to adopt the attitudes and mindset of Jesus whenever I am offered a position of authority. What are some of the characteristics of this mindset?
In being in the place of Christ, I need to try to adopt the attitudes and mindset of Jesus whenever I am offered a position of authority. What are some of the characteristics of this mindset?
- Humility--In his ministry, Jesus was very aware of his relationship with God and with those to whom he ministered. He led out of that awareness.
- Service--Jesus was more likely to be the one to serve the rest rather than claim authority.
- Prayer--Prayer, solitude and silence were essential to his leadership and his ministry.
- Truth--He spoke the truth that he heard within himself. He was consistent in his message without counting the cost.
What am I doing today to put the mindset of Christ into practice today?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Friday, January 7, 2011
Running Away or Running Towards?
Do not be daunted immediately by fear and run away from the road that leads to salvation. RB80.Prologue.48a
But as we progress in this way of life and in faith, we shall run on the path of God's commandments, our hearts overflowing with the inexpressible delight of love. RB80.Prologue.49
I enjoy moving at great speeds...so it is no surprise that this image of running found in the Prologue has always intrigued me.
Benedict presents me with the option of running away from this way of life. Running away in fear, in distress, in dejection from thinking the road too strenuous before even starting the race (Afterall, it is still the Prologue). Benedict also considers running towards God, towards fullness of life, towards love.
Which will I choose?
But as we progress in this way of life and in faith, we shall run on the path of God's commandments, our hearts overflowing with the inexpressible delight of love. RB80.Prologue.49
I enjoy moving at great speeds...so it is no surprise that this image of running found in the Prologue has always intrigued me.
Benedict presents me with the option of running away from this way of life. Running away in fear, in distress, in dejection from thinking the road too strenuous before even starting the race (Afterall, it is still the Prologue). Benedict also considers running towards God, towards fullness of life, towards love.
Which will I choose?
- I choose to run away everytime I let my fears or fantasies rule me.
- I choose to run away when I consider community and relationships not worth the effort even for one hour.
- I choose to run away through looking for distractions in my day to take me away from the dailiness of life.
- I choose to run towards God whenever I remember to pause and acknowledge God's presence with me--I am not in this alone.
- I choose to run towards life in doing things that improve my quality of life.
- I choose to run towards love in my relationship building and my communication skills.
May Christ truly bring us together to have a share in God's kingdom.
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Using Grace
What is not possible to us by nature, let us ask the Lord to supply by the help of his grace. RB80.Prologue.41
Realizing that human nature will often fall short, Benedict invites us today to ask for God's grace to help in the accomplishment of good deeds.
No matter how sincere my intentions, the fact still remains that I often fall short. Six days into the New Year and I have already restarted my resolution to "listen" at least once daily. It is only through asking for God's grace and relying on it that my intentions and resolutions will ever bear fruit.
What am I doing today to remind myself to rely on God's providence and grace?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Realizing that human nature will often fall short, Benedict invites us today to ask for God's grace to help in the accomplishment of good deeds.
No matter how sincere my intentions, the fact still remains that I often fall short. Six days into the New Year and I have already restarted my resolution to "listen" at least once daily. It is only through asking for God's grace and relying on it that my intentions and resolutions will ever bear fruit.
What am I doing today to remind myself to rely on God's providence and grace?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Translating Good Works
And indeed the Lord assures us in his love: I do not wish the death of the sinner, but that he turn back to me and live (Ezek 33:11). RB80.Prologue.38
In today's passage, Benedict reminds of us God's mercy and patience towards us. God does not take pleasure in my pain and misery. God waits for me to turn back and start anew.
This assurance is heartening--especially somedays when it feels that I am constantly turning back from my intended path. God's patience and love waits for me to realize my mistakes or wrong choices and to turn back on a straighter path. I find comfort in that and pray always for that awareness.
How am I turning back to God today?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
In today's passage, Benedict reminds of us God's mercy and patience towards us. God does not take pleasure in my pain and misery. God waits for me to turn back and start anew.
This assurance is heartening--especially somedays when it feels that I am constantly turning back from my intended path. God's patience and love waits for me to realize my mistakes or wrong choices and to turn back on a straighter path. I find comfort in that and pray always for that awareness.
How am I turning back to God today?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Running With Good Deeds
If we wish to dwell in the tent of this kingdom, we will never arrive unless we run there by doing good deeds. RB80.Prologue.22
So far, Benedict has encouraged us to give up our former, haphazard ways in order to follow Christ. Today, Benedict is instructing us that the easiest way to reach God's kingdom is through the performance of good actions.
It is the accumulation of virtuous acts, good actions, and positive habits that move me ever closer to the reality of dwelling with God, in God's presence. It is not that I do not already live in God's presence; it is more that the closer my thoughts and deeds are connected to God the easier it is for me to remember that God is with me always. I desire to increase that presence within me. It reminds me that I am not alone in this life journey.
What am I doing to increase my awareness of God today?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
So far, Benedict has encouraged us to give up our former, haphazard ways in order to follow Christ. Today, Benedict is instructing us that the easiest way to reach God's kingdom is through the performance of good actions.
It is the accumulation of virtuous acts, good actions, and positive habits that move me ever closer to the reality of dwelling with God, in God's presence. It is not that I do not already live in God's presence; it is more that the closer my thoughts and deeds are connected to God the easier it is for me to remember that God is with me always. I desire to increase that presence within me. It reminds me that I am not alone in this life journey.
What am I doing to increase my awareness of God today?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
Monday, January 3, 2011
The Gospel--A Guide for the Journey
Clothed then with faith and the performance of good works, let us set out on our way, with the Gospel for our guide, that we may deserve to see him who has called us to his kingdom (1Thess 2:12). RB80.Prologue.21
It is important to have a good plan and a good map when setting out on a journey. As we begin another cycle of the reading of the Rule of Benedict, it is necessary to have a road map also.
Benedict fills his short Rule with a multitude of allusions to scripture. He uses these references as freely as many of us use regional expressions or idioms in daily speech. He intends for his followers to be that familiar with the Bible also...especially wisdom literature.
I enjoy travelling so I can relate to the need for a trustworthy map or at least a good compass to help orient me in my daily journeys. That map can be pretty worthless if I do not understand the symbols it contains or it's information. In that same way, I need to become so familiar with the Scriptures that they become part of who I am. I need to take the time to allow these beautiful passages to become more than just mere words to know and memorize but words to live by.
What am I doing to allow God's word more space in my life today?
It is important to have a good plan and a good map when setting out on a journey. As we begin another cycle of the reading of the Rule of Benedict, it is necessary to have a road map also.
Benedict fills his short Rule with a multitude of allusions to scripture. He uses these references as freely as many of us use regional expressions or idioms in daily speech. He intends for his followers to be that familiar with the Bible also...especially wisdom literature.
I enjoy travelling so I can relate to the need for a trustworthy map or at least a good compass to help orient me in my daily journeys. That map can be pretty worthless if I do not understand the symbols it contains or it's information. In that same way, I need to become so familiar with the Scriptures that they become part of who I am. I need to take the time to allow these beautiful passages to become more than just mere words to know and memorize but words to live by.
What am I doing to allow God's word more space in my life today?
Saturday, January 1, 2011
New Year's Resolutions
I generally avoid making New Year Resolutions or setting concrete goals...mostly because I am not fond of accountability and I tend to see things in extremes so the potential for failure if not perfect is terrifying. Who wants to start the year making promises that you know you will probably fudge on before the 1st week of the year is complete?
This year I decided to do things a little differently. I would make just one resolution...it would be one word long and is supposed to be one of the key elements in my life today. My resolution for 2011 is to LISTEN. Listen to God's Word in my life, listen to those around me, listen to God's stirrings in nature, maybe even listen to myself and my body.
Listening is more than the physical act of hearing. It is a choice to pay attention and to stay with the message being delivered. Listening requires my full presence because it is easy to miss a piece of the message if I am distracted. It asks me to put aside what I already know or think I know and open myself to a new perspective.
Listen is the first word of the Rule of Benedict and needs to be an essential value in my life and in my relationships.
How am I listening to God's voice today?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
This year I decided to do things a little differently. I would make just one resolution...it would be one word long and is supposed to be one of the key elements in my life today. My resolution for 2011 is to LISTEN. Listen to God's Word in my life, listen to those around me, listen to God's stirrings in nature, maybe even listen to myself and my body.
Listening is more than the physical act of hearing. It is a choice to pay attention and to stay with the message being delivered. Listening requires my full presence because it is easy to miss a piece of the message if I am distracted. It asks me to put aside what I already know or think I know and open myself to a new perspective.
Listen is the first word of the Rule of Benedict and needs to be an essential value in my life and in my relationships.
How am I listening to God's voice today?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
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