Shepherding the Flock

Still, if he has faithfully shepherded a restive and disobedient flock, always striving to cure their unhealthy ways, it will be otherwise: the shepherd will be acquitted at the Lord's judgment. Then, like the Prophet, he may say to the Lord: I have not hidden your justice in my heart; I have proclaimed your truth and your salvation (Ps 39[40]:11), but they spurned and rejected me (Isa 1:2; Ezek 20:27). RB80.2.8-9

Benedict uses a mixture of Scriptural quotes and allusions to bring out the burden that is placed on the leader of a group. Benedict likens the superior to a shepherd who is caring for his flock. The shepherd is to do what can be done to direct the flock along safe paths. If even with the best efforts the flock still insists on it's own ways--the shepherd is relieved of the responsibility. There are only so many warnings or teachings that can be imparted on the group. After a while, the group will have to be accountable for their own behavior.

Benedict alludes to a passage from the book of the Prophet Ezekiel where God explains to the Prophet what will happen to the people if they are instructed to turn from their own ways and follow God. The Prophet will only be responsible for the outcome if he failed in his mission; if, however, he relays God's message of repentance and the people ignore it they are held accountable for their own actions and the Prophet is acquitted.

The Abbot or Prioress carries a teaching role as part of their task. If the leader does everything possible to guide the group in the right way, the community will be saved. If they choose to ignore the instructions, they are responsible for the consequences.

In a community, we are all responsible for the groups salvation. What am I doing to help my community grow in holiness?

Sr. Catherine, OSB