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 35-44
| With this conclusion, the Lord waits for us daily to translate into action, as we should, his holy teachings. Therefore our life span has been lengthened by way of a truce, that we may amend our misdeeds. As the Apostle says: Do you not know that the patience of God is leading you to repent (Rom 2:4)? And indeed the Lord assures us in his love: I do not wish the death of a sinner, but that he turn back to me and live (Ezek 33:11). Brothers, now that we have asked the Lord who will dwell in his tent, we have heard the instruction for dwelling in it, but only if we fulfill the obligations of those who live there. We must, then, prepare our hearts and bodies for the battle of holy obedience to his instructions. What is not possible to us by nature, let us ask the Lord to supply by the help of his grace. If we wish to reach eternal life, even as we avoid the torments of hell, then – while there is still time, while we are in the body and have time to accomplish all these things by the light of life – we must run and do now what will profit us forever. |
Commentary
The tone of the Prologue thus far has been invitation. While Benedict invites us, it is certain that God is the one who is drawing us to this way of life. We must except the natural and difficult things that present themselves to follow the Lord to his tent. We must run the race, focused and fully determined to follow Jesus.
We can completely trust Jesus because his only desire is that we live and not die. Jesus knows what is best for us. He is the Good Shepherd and will not allow us to leave his fold.
Prayer
Jesus, you have called me to follow you. Let me be generous in my response as you call me from the depths of my being to be fully alive. Amen.
Enlarge my heart 
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