Each month, I reflect on a small portion of the Rule of Saint Benedict. May the Rule shape our hearts in following Jesus.
Prologue Verses 23-28
| But let me ask the Lord with the Prophet: Who will dwell in your tent, O Lord; who will find rest upon your holy mountain? (Ps 14[15]:1). After this question, brothers, let us listen well to what the Lord says in reply, for he shows us the way to his tent. One who walks without blemish, he says, and is just in all his dealings; who speaks the truth from his heart and has not practiced deceit with his tongue; who has not wronged a fellowman in any way, nor listened to slanders against his neighbor (Ps 14[15]:2-3). He has foiled the evil one, the devil, at every turn, flinging both him and his promptings far from the sight of his heart. While these temptations were still young, he caught hold of them and dashed them against Christ (Ps 14[15]:4; 136[137]:9). |
Commentary
Benedict firmly reminds me that the route to the Lord’s tent is not a physical location like following a GPS or map. The way into God’s dwelling is an interior journey within. We arrive at his tent when our behavior is modeled after Christ, people can come to us and feel secure in truth and not deceit.
Benedict also reminds me that we must always be on our guard. When our temptations peak, we must turn our whole selves to Christ, who fights our battles for us. We should never have pride in thinking we can fight our battles alone because we will always fail. We must have Christ as our shield and protector.
This section of the Rule is an excellent reminder of how we start the day. Do we focus on Christ at the first moment of every day, recognizing we are loved, or give in to distractions? Run to Christ at all times. If we fail, run to the Lord in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, receive pardon, and move on. This is dashing our sins to the Lord.
Prayer
O Patient and Loving Jesus, be my shield against the wickedness and snares of the devil. Let me run to you and form my life after your values and teachings. Amen.
Enlarge my heart 
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