Chapter 21: The deans of the monastery
They must be selected for their suitability in character and gifts so that the abbot or abbess may, without anxiety, share some responsibilities with them. (From para. 1 of Ch. 21 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)
I think that sharing responsibilities can be a way of sharing life. I can believe less in my own "indispensability" and help others open their eyes to their own gifts.
I think that sharing responsibilities can be a way of sharing life. I can believe less in my own "indispensability" and help others open their eyes to their own gifts.
Marriage is a sharing. This is the immediate community in which I live. When I place my self-interest before the good of the marriage, before the good of the other, the fabric of our marriage begins to tear. How to avoid this? It is through "virtuous living" and "wise teaching" which means for me love and prayer. These two come from the practice to which I am committed, twice-daily meditation, praying the Divine Office, and lectio of Scripture and the Rule. This is my oblation. Strengthen me O Lord in this commitment to love and prayer.
ReplyDeletePlace me, Abba, where I may be of most use to you today. Perhaps my ability to respond, my principal “response-ability” today will be in sharing these few words of comment. Like any child’s gift, you accept this poor, tiny bit of love, and once more hug me to yourself, just as I am at this moment.
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