Mar 30 - Holy Week Mystery

Purge me from my sin, and I shall be pure; *
Wash me and I shall be clean indeed.
Psalm 51:8

Those who are sick or weak should be given a type of work or craft that will keep them busy without overwhelming them or driving them away.
Benedict's Rule 48:24 (Chittister, Pg. 216)

At every stage of our lives, every one of us has a sign of hope and faith and love and commitment to share with the people around us.
Chittister, Pg. 217

Stages of life -- I look with wonder at what is the same and what changes, where I let go and where I don't... 44 years ago I first listened to Jesus Christ Superstar. I was at a place where I was first trying on my own understanding of God's call and first pondering the mystery of Christ's sacrifice and God's salvation. Many Holy Weeks since I still listen to Jesus Christ Superstar, and still fall deeply into the music and words finding yet new meaning in Christ's sacrifice and God's salvation. As I ponder the events of Holy Week I am still amazed at the mystery and wonder of our Lord's precious gift.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book. Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 28 - Joy, A Common Part of My Life

By the waters of Babylon we sat down and wept, *
when we remembered you, O Zion.
As for our harps, we hung them up *
on the trees in the mist of that land.
Psalm 137:1-2

Idleness is the enemy of the soul. Therefore the community members should have specified periods for manual labor as well as for prayerful reading.
Benedict's Rule 48:1 (Chittister, Pg. 211)

The function of the spiritual life is not to escape into the next world; it is to live well in this one.
Chittister, Pg. 211

Yes, there are times I want to escape. There are times I have wanted the joys of "the next world". It is important to be reminded of the balance of living now -- Doing work and growing spiritually right here in our world. When I hold tightly to control, try and schedule everything, and worry and put myself down for not doing everything I schedule for myself, life is difficult. When I relax, let go, and keep prayer, study, work, and recreation in balance joy becomes a common part of my life.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book. Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 27 - Immersed in Prayer and Scripture

They stare and gloat over me; *
they divide my garments among them;
they cast lots for my clothing.
Psalm 22:17

...let this be done with humility, seriousness, and reverence, and at the bidding of the prioress or abbot.
Benedict's Rule 47:4 (Chittister, Pg. 209)

...unless the group becomes more and more immersed in prayer and the Scriptures, giving them priority no matter what the pressures of the day, the group will cease to have any authenticity at all.
Chittister, Pg. 209

Reading the Psalm I think of the casting of lots for Jesus cloak as Jesus is Crucified. Can I live a life that honors Jesus' sacrifice? Do I become immersed in prayer and Scripture? Do I provide needed support as the groups I am in try and immerse the members in prayer and Scripture? Where can I do better?

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book. Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 26 - Be Available Always

I do not occupy myself with great matters, *
or with things that are too hard for me.
But I still my soul and make it quiet, like a child upon its mother's breast; *
my soul is quieted within me.
Psalm 131:2-3

When the cause of sin lies hidden in the conscience, the monastic is to reveal it only to the prioress or abbot or to one of the spiritual elders...
Benedict's Rule 46:5 (Chittister, Pg. 207)

The challenge of community lies in whether we ourselves care enough about anyone else to be willing to be their light, to treat their wounds well, to protect their reputations when they try to walk with us.
Chittister, Pg. 207-208

It is not about me, it is about everyone else around me. I need engage only when asked -- be available always, but insert myself never. It is about always being available.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book. Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 24 - Self Knowledge

My help comes from the Lord, *
the maker of heaven and earth.
Psalm 121:2

They do so until they [the abbot or prioress] give them blessing and say "Enough."
Benedict's Rule 44:10 (Chittister, Pg. 203)

This chapter forces us to ask, in an age without penances and in a culture totally given to individualism, what relationships we may be betraying by selfishness and what it would take to cure ourselves of the self-centeredness that requires the rest of the world to exist for our own convenience.
Chittister, Pg. 203

Am I the only one that sees my own self-centeredness? I expect not. But the reminder to ask the question of myself is needed. It is my experience that after being reminded that I am selfish, and noting the selfishness and self-centeredness, there is a gradual decrease in my awareness until the next reminder...

Lord help me not forget may fallibility and self-centeredness, and to keep a healthy respect for my failures. I further ask for balance in self-knowledge, that I also not forget what I do well and to your satisfaction...

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book. Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 23 - Failure and Growth

I will rejoice and be glad because of your mercy; *
for you have seen my affliction;
you know my distress.
Psalm 31:7

No one is to presume to eat or drink before or after the time appointed.
Benedict's Rule 43:18 (Chittister, Pg. 200)

Both community and prayer, therefore, are essential elements of Benedictine spirituality, and we may not neglect either.
Chittister, Pg. 201

As a Benedictine oblate I face struggle and imperfection in my attempts to fully participate in, live, and accept the norms and rules of the School of God's Service that I am enrolled in. How wonderful to have our Lord who fully accepts my failures and struggles, always loving me and expecting me to grow beyond each failure.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book. Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 22 - Just Start Again

The Lord is my strength and my song, *
and he has become my salvation.
Psalm 118:14

Indeed nothing is to be prefered to the Opus Die.
Benedict's Rule 43:3 (Chittister, Pg. 197)

Nothing in life qualifies as an exchange for the Word of God, not good work, not a job almost finished, not an interesting conversation, not the need for privacy... Benedictine spirituality says Stop. Now. A spiritual life without regular prayer and an integrated community consciousness is pure illusion.
Chittister, Pg. 198, 199

I start back after my "day off" with this reading, a gentle reminder about the importance of prayer time. Already I am making excuses: I needed sleep, my schedule didn't allow time, I did other good things...

Enough! Let's get down to basics: I am committed, I needn't worry about if or how to continue. The answer is simple: Just take the time today to read, pray, meditate, then plan that I will continue tomorrow and the next day...

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book. Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 20 - Gifts, Regardless

Incline your ear to me; *
when I call make haste to answer me,
For my days drift away like smoke, *
and my bones are hot as burning coals.
Psalm 102:2-3

Similarly, they should so regulate and arrange all matters that souls may be saved and the members may go about their activities without justifiable grumbling.
Benedict's Rule 41:5 (Chittister, Pg. 191)

It is so easy to go through life looking feverishly for special ways to find God when God is most of all to be found in doing common things with uncommon conscientiousness.
Chittister, Pg. 194

How often do I look only for the "special" rather than the realistic and common? Do I complain that the weather gets in my way, or do I look to the dark raining morning as the special and individual celebration of "Today"? What about the third, fifth, or tenth rainy morning in a row?

Can I see each encounter with the world, or people in the world, as a unique and special gift? Gifts regardless of my understanding, gifts regardless of how I feel after the encounter, gifts even when I grumble and cannot see the goodness in my day?

Lord, help me. I don't like it when I can't see joy, or when I fail and close my mind to all. Help me see your love, forgiveness, and guidance in every encounter.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book. Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 19 - Acid?

You know my reproach, my shame, and my dishonor; *
my adversaries are all in your sight.
Psalm 69:21

Above all else we admonish them to refrain from grumbling...
Benedict's Rule 40:9 (Chittister, Pg. 190)

Complaining is the acid that shrivels our own souls and the soul of the community around us as well.
Chittister, Pg. 190

Grumbling and complaining, who among us hasn't done that at times? But hearing Sister Joan describe it as "acid" is strong indeed. But what happens when constant complaints are bandied about? I certainly don't enjoy that environment. I have been in groups so filled with grumbling, and in the particular case I am thinking of, a grandiose feeling of self-worth, that group progress was squelched for several months.

Lord help me to stop my grumbling and to look for creative and helpful ways of responding.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book. Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 16 - Compassion When Overwhelmed

You rule the raging of the sea *
and still the surging of its waves.
Psalm 89:9

...but should be trusted with kindly consideration...
Benedict's Rule 37:2 (Chittister, Pg. 177)

Benedict builds compassion right into the Rule so that oppression in the name of God will not become a monastic sin.
Chittister, Pg. 178

We must have compassion and realistic expectations for the situation and time of life people are in. For example, we expect tired children to be cranky and to cry. We don't expect them to make rational adult decisions. We don't even expect fully rational decisions from ourselves and other adults when we are over tired, sick, or overextended.

We do expect ourselves, as adults in good condition, to make allowances for when we are "out of sorts", avoiding most (I would say all, but I am realistic) of the melt-downs we see in children.

I am thinking this expectation is the easy part. The "real" part happens when we keep driving ourselves, denying we have reached, or even exceeded, our normal capabilities, where we don't make allowances for being over tired, or deny we are ill, or that life is simply over taxing our capabilities. Or, perhaps even worse, when we hide behind being tired, sick, and overwhelmed to avoid responsibilities...

Balance. Again we come to balance in our own lives, and in what we expect of others.

Praise and thank you to our Lord for being with us, holding us, and keeping us through the all too many times we fail on our own.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book. Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 15 - Into the Snare with Heavy Burdens

You brought us into the snare; *
you laid heavy burdens upon our backs
Psalm 66:10

Care of the sick must rank above and before all else so that they may truly be served as Christ...
Benedict's Rule 36:1 (Chittister, Pg. 174)

How much of our own precious time do we spend on those with little time left?
Chittister, Pg. 176

...Into the snare...heavy burden on our (my) backs...

I have shied away from focusing on passages that I have seen as difficult or hard to hear recently, but today this passage from Psalms puts words to how I feel. I am called out of my comfort zone, I am called away from being placid and being able to sit back and just do what I want (or not do anything...) I am called to actively care for myself and others, and to spend time with God.

This calls me to face what I want to avoid, to take responsibility in my life...

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book. Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 12 - All We Need

As the deer longs for the water-brooks, *
so longs my soul for you, O God.
Psalm 42:1

First and foremost, there must be no word or sign of the evil of grumbling...
Benedict's Rule 34:6 (Chittister, Pg. 168)

Destitution and deprivation are not monastic virtues.
Chittister, Pg. 168

I was traveling yesterday, up early and on the road, so I skipped the chapter in the Rule of Benedict on private ownership. In that chapter Benedict describes how in Benedictine communities there is no private ownership, all property is owned by the community. This community ownership, rather than personal ownership, is the context of the reading today. Monastics are to be provided what is needed, they are not to be destitute, nor are they to grumble about this.

This is another one of the areas where Benedict's rule, at first reading, may not seem all that relevant to those of us that are not living in full-time monastic communities. But on second thought this can be quite useful. If we hope to live a life that approaches, even a bit, the life of Jesus, it seems we must recognize that God is truly the owner of all, regardless what the deeds and titles say, and we must look to God for all we need...

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book. Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 9 - Largesse of Spirit

Restore us, O Lord God of hosts; *
show the light of your countenance and we shall be saved.
Psalm 80:18

Above all, let the cellarer be humble.
Benedict's Rule 31:13 (Chittister, Pg. 162)

The person with a Benedictine tenor learns here to err on the side of largesse of spirit.
Chittister, Pg. 163

Do I show largesse of spirit? Why yes, of course I do! Really, all the time? Well, err, no...

I can be quick in my response, resenting interruptions and changes in "my" plans. I am lucky that I live and work with patient companions and coworkers. And I am blessed by the Lord God who knows I will fail and provides grace and forgiveness when I (finally) realize what I have done and ask...

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book. Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 8 - Manifesting Myself?

The waters have lifted up, O Lord,
the waters have lifted up their voice; *
the waters have lifted up their pounding waves.
Psalm 93:4

The cellarer will regard all utensils and goods of the monastery as sacred vessels of the alter.
Benedict's Rule 31:10 (Chittister, Pg. 158)

The call to be what we say we believe becomes a measure of authenticity for teachers, parents and administrators everywhere.
Chittister, Pg. 158

What do I believe? What do my actions manifest? Is what I manifest what I expect? Yesterday at one of the meetings I regularly participate in the topic was relationships. We discussed how often that which we most dislike in another is what we are most dissatisfied with in ourselves. Bingo! As I think about things I take my spouse to task for, they really are things about myself that I dislike. I can wrap it up in high sounding justification, but that is just me trying to avoid looking at myself. It brings home that if I am called to be what I say, I have work to do...

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 7 - To Heal Not To Destroy

Do not toss your horns so high, *
nor speak with a proud neck.
Psalm 75:5

Every age and level of understanding should receive appropriate treatment.
Benedict's Rule, 30:1 (Chittister, Pg. 156)

...Benedictine punishment is always meant to heal, never to destroy; to cure, not to crush.
Chittister, Pg. 157

To heal, not destroy... While my roles may include helping others to identify faults, I cannot forget I have faults as well. It doesn't matter my anger or my frustration, my role is to build through respect, not belittle through frustration or anger.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 4 - Utmost Care

May his Name remain for ever
and be established as long as the sun endures; *
May all the nations bless themselves in him and call him blessed.
Psalm 72:17

The abbot and prioress must ensure the utmost care and concern for the wayward
Benedict's Rule 27:1 (Chittister, Pg. 149)

The spiritual life is a process, not an event. It takes time and love and help and care. It takes our patient presence. Just like everything else.
Chittister, Pg. 151

Sr. Joan also reminds me "What we have in monasteries and parishes and all fine social movements and devoted rectories and most families are just people, simple people who never meet their own ideals..." You mean I am responsible here too? I can barely get my own act together and you expect me to be there for others that are struggling? Wow, this puts an interesting light on what I must do, what my role is, whether I am at work, at home, or in class... I need the Lord whose Name remains forever.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 3 - Just Listen

God has spoken once. Twice have I heard it, *
that power belongs to God.
Psalm 62:13

If anyone, acting without an order from the prioress or abbot...
Benedict's Rule 26:1 (Chittister, Pg. 148)

Benedict wants the cure to have the time to heal. Meddling, agitating, distracting a person from the great work of growth at such an important time in a person's life is a grave fault itself.
Chittister, Pg. 148

In our budding community we started studying "Listening" this week. Sister Joan's admonition to allow time to work is appropriate to hear during this study. It is not always easy for me to listen, to let another have the floor, to not anticipate what they are going to say, but to instead simply let them say it.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 2 - Keep Growing

They have laid a net for my feet, and I am bowed low; *
they have dug a pit before me,
but have fallen into it themselves.
Psalm 57:5

Those guilty of a serious fault...
Benedict's Rule 25:1 (Chittister, Pg. 146)

The point of the rule is simply that we have to take intervals to explore consciously what we ourselves are holding back from the group that depends on us.
Chittister, Pg. 147

We change. I change. We do so in an imperfect way (well, at least at times). That does not mean we stop or that God does not love us and expect us to keep growing.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Mar 1 - Ascending The Hill

Who can ascend the hill of the Lord? *
and who can stand in his holy place?
Psalm 24:3

There ought to be due proportion between the seriousness of the fault and the measure of excommunication or discipline.
Benedict's Rule 24:1 (Chittister, Pg. 144)

And, Benedict insinuates, once you have broken the bonds that make a community a community, a family a family, a team a team, there is no growth possible until we all face the fact.
Chittister, Pg. 145

We all, we hope, wish to ascend the hill of the Lord, we want to stand in the holy place. But our path is not always straight. We are amid eight chapters of the Rule of Benedict that discuss "punishment." In our class, as we read Benedict's rule, we are not likely to need much punishment. However, we may find we have broken a rule here and there. (Hopefully not often, but we are human, we do sin...)

These readings remind me of two things: 1) When something is broken we need to recognize the break and fix it, not let it slip by and become bigger and bigger, and 2) When we respond, we respond proportionately to the actual damage. If we recognize the break when it is small we can often resolve it and make amends quickly. Often with a simple apology and sincere change of heart.

So, let me continue to ascend the hill of the Lord, small stumbles recognized quickly are easily recovered.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Feb 27 - Calling Out To God

Save me, O God, by your Name; *
in your might, defend my cause.
Here my prayer, O God; *
Give ear to the words of my mouth.
Psalm 54:1-2

Thus the members will always be ready to arise without delay...
Benedict's Rule 22:6 (Chittister, Pg. 140)

Personal modesty, simplicity, readiness, and encouragement in life may well be staples of community living, of family life, or decent society even today.
Chittister, Pg 141

I woke up early today and started my day early. Feeling good, empowered in life and work, why worry about God saving me? I don't feel the need to be saved... But I didn't post a blog entry yesterday, I have not gone to my self-help support group since the beginning of the month, I was so happy choir rehearsal was canceled last night. Maybe I do need to call out to God after all? When was the last time I simply called to God and listened?

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.

Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Feb 25 - Just Do It

Teach me discernment and knowledge, *
for I have believed in your commandments.
Psalm 119:66

We must know that God regards our purity of heart and tears of compunction, not our many words.
Benedict's Rule 20:3 (Chittister, Pg. 132)

...not long hours spent in chapel but a lifetime lived in the Spirit of God...
Chittister, Pg. 133

My day is not in the chapel. It is among people. It is out doing the work God has for me to do. It is my letting go of what I want to do and doing what needs to be done. I am brought back to my life being a prayer. I am reminded that I am not to avoid work, not to avoid relationships, not hide in my prayer, but to be fully present doing the work that God has for me to do.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.

Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Feb 24 - Time In The Furnace

Your throne, O God, endures for ever and ever, *
a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of your kingdom;
you love righteousness and hate iniquity.
Psalm 45:7

Let us consider, then, how we ought to sing the psalms in such a way that our minds are in harmony with our voices.
Benedict's Rule 19:7 (Chittister, Pg. 130)

Prayer ... becomes a furnace in which every act of our lives is submitted to the heat and purifying process of the smelting fire...
Chittister, Pg. 131

Do I allow myself to be submitted to the fire? Do I spend the time needed to become pure? Or do I want the quick fix, just like I want my fast-food lunch, my microwave dinner, and easy relations with family without ever having to talk about hard topics and disagreements? Smelting and purifying are not instant, nor is change. Both take time. I need to take time to sit back and think, not just move from "In" to "Out", not just snapping back when called...

May I remember that as important as I think the next five minutes are, pausing and taking my time may well bring better results.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.

Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Comments are welcome, and encouraged, please use the blog comment feature.

Feb 23 - Patterns and Hope

Even my best friend, whom I trusted,
who broke bread with me, *
has lifted up his heel and turned against me.
Psalm 41:9

Four psalms are sung each day at Vespers...
Benedict's Rule 18:12 (Chittister, Pg. 126)

...Benedict wants us to learn and say daily and never forget...
Chittister, Pg. 127

We are in the middle of a section of the rule most useful to monastics living in community. What do we, who are not living in full-time Benedictine communities, that do not break to pray together all seven hours every day, take from this? Sister Joan says later that we should develop a "full spiritual palate", that we need regular recitation and "total immersion" in the Psalms. We can use the Psalms to ground us in the faith. We develop a pattern of reading and praying. The pattern I use, from the daily office Lectionary in the prayer book of the Episcopal Church, reads all the Psalms in a seven week cycle. With this pattern we see each Psalm about seven times each year.

Today, for example, I read Psalms 41 and 52. I read Psalms 41 and 52 in late January (the seven week cycle was abridged as Lent interrupted the previous cycle). The verse that spoke to me today was harsher than the one that spoke to me in January. This is the cycle of Psalms in action. I don't think my life, or my point of view, is gloomier than before, just that today I recognize a different part of God's word. No friend has lifted their heel and turned against me, but by reading that verse I am reminded that even should my friends one day abandon me, I still have the Lord. God holds me even should I have no earthly friends. A prayer around this is that I remember God is with me whenever I feel abandoned.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.

Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Comments are welcome, and encouraged, please use the blog comment feature.

Feb 22 - Delivered and Saved Daily

My soul clings to you; *
your right hand holds me fast.
Psalm 63:8

In this way, Psalm 119 will always begin on Sunday.
Benedict's Rule 18:11 (Chittister, Pg. 125)

They repeat the same messages over and over ... every day of their lives the monastic hears the same message: God delivers us, God is our refuge, God will save us from those who seek to destroy us, God will bring us home.
Chittister, Pg. 125

Benedict repeats Psalms 120-128 daily for five days a week, using the other two days to read Psalm 119. Every week. Benedict repeats all the Psalms weekly, but Psalms 120-128 are repeated daily Tuesday through Saturday. Sister Joan points out these nine Psalms repeat that God is calling us, caring for us, bringing us home.

I don't know about others, but for me regular repetition is necessary. I don't usually get it on the first try. I need the message that God delivers us, is our refuge, that God will save us, bring us home. If I don't read this regularly, if I don't pray daily, if I don't see God reaching for me I either think I have the power to save myself, or I forget I need to be saved.

It is good to be reminded, and good to be in a community...

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.

Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Comments are welcome, and encouraged, please use the blog comment feature.

Feb 21 - Reminded During The Good Times

Be glad, you righteous, and rejoice in the Lord; *
shout for joy, all who are true of heart.
Psalm 32:12

Each of the day hours begins with the verse, "O God, come to my assistance; O god, make haste to help me" followed by the doxology and the appropriate hymn.
Benedict's Rule 18:1 (Chittister, Pg. 124)

...the underlying truth of life: the monastic is to remember, however powerless they may feel, that no ruler is as powerful as God
Chittister, Pg. 125

Looking back at the rest of Psalms 30 and 32, which I read for today, I notice the verse I have quoted is one of the more upbeat verses. I am not surprised, right now my life is quite positive. These past two months I haven't felt "my bones withered away" (32:3) or subject to the "tribulations of the wicked" (32:11). But that does not mean I should stop reading from the Psalms, or think those verses don't apply to me. As Benedict reminds us we need God to come to our assistance. Perhaps we need to be reminded even more during the good times.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.

Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Comments are welcome, and encouraged, please use the blog comment feature.

Feb 19 - Commit Your Way to the Lord

Commit your way to the Lord and put your trust in him, *
and he will bring it to pass.
Psalm 37:5

The prophet says: "Seven times a day have I praised you"
Benedict's Rule 16:1 (Chittister, Pg. 119)

The point is clear: there is to be no time, no thing, that absorbs so much that we lose contact with the God of life ... More, whatever other people worship, we are to keep our minds and hearts on God.
Chittister, Pg. 121

Seven times a day? Put my trust in God? Never lose contact with God? But I have my life to live! But, if, as in the verse from Psalms, I put my trust in God, God will bring it to pass...

It seems I am not alone here. I am not alone in needing structure and regular reminders that while it is my life I am living, I am God's. Sister Joan reminds us that Saint Benedict's prescription is "brief, simple, scriptural prayers at regular intervals, easy enough to be recited and prayed even in the workplace". I pray twice a day, isn't that enough? Do I really need to add five, or is it six more times of prayer a day? I don't have an answer. The closest I have to an answer is "commit your way to the Lord...he will bring it to pass"

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.

Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Comments are welcome, and encouraged, please use the blog comment feature.

Feb 18 - Alleluias, Ash Wednesday, And All That

Let me hear of your loving-kindness in the morning,
for I put my trust in you; *
show me the road that I must walk,
for I lift up my soul to you.
Psalm 143:8

From the holy feast of Easter until Pentecost, "Alleluia" is always said with both the psalms and the responsories.
Benedict's Rule 15:1 (Chittister, Pg. 117)

To the Benedictine mind, life in all its long nights and weary days is something to be praised...
Chittister, Pg. 118

My days are joyful, at least recently. My life is good. I can easily say "Alleluia". But even now I still need to hear of God's loving-kindness, because even with good days I still have long nights and weary times.

Today is Ash Wednesday. We stop saying "Alleluia" until Easter. We pause and remember that not all of us are having good days, nor do those of us that are having good days have them every day. As Sister Joan quotes Saint Augustine "We are an Easter people." I cannot forget either word: "Easter", or "people" -- being a person among people I remember the hard times and know they are likely to come again. I know that by nature I sin and need to ask forgiveness. But we have Easter, and I know that forgiveness is there for the asking, that good days do come. And like Easter following Lent, or Spring following Winter, I pray that I put my trust in God, that I remember life continues on and I remember to continue offering praise even when I next have long nights and weary days.

A Note To Readers:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Comments are welcome, and encouraged, please use the blog comment feature.

Feb 17 - Chaos Ordered, Order Transfigured

O Lord, I call to you;
my Rock, do not be deaf to my cry; *
lest, if you do not hear me,
I become like those who go down to the Pit.
Psalm 28:1

On the feasts of saints, and indeed on all solemn festivals, the Sunday order of celebrations is followed...
Benedict's Rule, 14:1 (Chittister, Pg. 116)

The lesson is that we must keep the human dimensions of the faith very much in mind and find in models from the past proof that daily chaos can be ordered and the ordinary transfigured for us, too.
Chittister, Pg. 117

Transfiguring the ordinary. In my area we had the day off for snow. A fine example of chaos being ordered. Everything has changed, yet the view out the window is wonderful. Later I will go out and clear my driveway and sidewalks. And what is ordinary is transfigured. Waking up in the morning becomes a time of discovery as we look out the window at the clean white blanket of snow over what has been a dull brown lawn...

Does the chaos of my life become ordered, are the ordered mundane moments of my life transfigured? It all depends on my attitude. If I call upon the Lord, if I enjoy the special days as they come along, if I remember I am only human, it seems that days are transfigured, that the moments become special, even when surrounded by the mundane...

A Note To Anyone Reading:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Comments are welcome, and encouraged, please use the blog comment feature.

Feb 16 - Daily Reminders

Show me your ways, O Lord, *
and teach me your paths.
Psalm 25:3

...the celebration of Lauds and Vespers must never pass by without the prioress or abbot reciting the entire Prayer of Jesus at the end for all to hear, because thorns of contention are likely to spring up.
Benedict's Rule 13:12 (Chittister, Pg. 113)

Benedictine prayer is not an escape into a contrived or arcane life. It is prayer intended to impel us through the cold, hard realities of life in the home, life in the community, life in the world, life with people...
Chittister, Pg. 115

My life is not the "pink cloud" of ease and play and joyful wandering without care that I still so often dream of. I have chosen to take on responsibilities and to interact with people. While many days are are well filled with wonder and adventure, some days I feel trapped while other days I just wish for more. It is good to hear that I am not alone in needing to be shown and taught. Benedict knew we were subject to this and adds the Lord's Prayer at the beginning and the end of the day. Sister Joan points out how Benedict's list of Psalms said in the morning reflects this need.

I am glad to be reminded often that I am much like others, in need of teaching and pattern. In need of reminders and support. While I do not read all the Psalms each week (my pattern uses the Morning and Evening Prayer rotation in the Episcopal Prayer Book to read the Psalms in a 7 week cycle) I do well when I remember to pray the Lord's Prayer daily, remembering that I must be forgiven, and that I must forgive...

A Note To Anyone Reading:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Comments are welcome, and encouraged, please use the blog comment feature.

Feb 15 - Tempestuous Wind

Praise the Lord from the earth, *
you sea-monsters and all deeps;
Fire and hail, snow and fog, *
tempestuous wind, doing his will;
Psalm 148:7-8

First, Psalm 67 is said without a refrain and slightly protracted as on Sunday so that everyone can be present...
Benedict's Rule 13:2 (Chittister, Pg. 111)

Lauds becomes an unending lesson in reality and faith, in accepting what life brings, sure in the knowledge that the God who loves us is with us upholding us all the way.
Chittister, Pg. 112

When I was reading the psalms this morning I was just waking up after the long, very cold, and very windy, night (the night of Feb 14-15, 2015). It was a night that started with snow and proceeded to tempestuous winds and cold, one of the coldest  nights I remember since I arrived in the Washington DC area in 1985. Cold winter nights with high winds test my patience and trust greatly. Power outages in the summer are uncomfortable. Power outages in the winter, especially on the coldest winter days, are dangerous if the power is off for long.

Add to that the house noises that are different when the wind is blowing hard and I have a prescription for testing my faith. I woke up in need of confirmation that the tempestuous winds and the snow and the fog are all part of God's creation. Then I read Sister Joan's reminder that God is upholding us all the way. Thank you for God's active hand in my life, even if I didn't get a really good night's sleep...

A Note To Anyone Reading:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Comments are welcome, and encouraged, please use the blog comment feature.

Feb 14 - Consistency and Change

Before the mountains were brought fourth,
or the land and the earth were born, *
from age to age you are God.
Psalm 90:2

Sunday Lauds begin with Psalm 66, said straight through without a refrain.
Benedict's Rule, 12:1 (Chittister, Pg. 110)

The point is that every life needs points along the way that enable to rise above the petty daily problems...and begin again...
Chittister, Pg. 111

I need patterns in my life. I need to be willing to break and re-establish patterns in my life. For me, patterns, new patterns, and change thrive within constants. Constants like knowing that God is always with me. This is like the mountains and land -- rarely do I see mountains or hills change , but trees and plants are a different story. I liken the breaks in the patterns of my life to when my father changed the location of his garden. At one time it was down the road, the other side of our neighbor's house. Then he changed to having the garden in our yard. Having the garden was constant, the location changed.

Another constant is worship with my church community on Sunday. As a Christian, Sunday worship is a key part of my life, like the unchanging mountains. My specific patterns change, but the call to worship in my church on Sunday doesn't change, it is always there calling me, giving me a place to begin again.

A Note To Anyone Reading:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Comments are welcome, and encouraged, please use the blog comment feature.

Feb 13 - Enjoying the Journey

Those who are planted in the house of he Lord *
shall flourish in the courts of our God;
Psalm 92:12

On Sunday the community should arise earlier for Vigils.
Benedict's Rule 11:1 (Chittister, Pg. 107)

...prayer is not to be a series of mindless mechanics in life. Prayer is the development of an attitude of mind that is concentrated and contemplative.
Chittister, Pg. 108

Sister Joan reminds us we need to take time out each week, time for "setting our sights above the daily, for restating the basics, for giving meaning to the rest of the week..." For me it is not missing the individual Sunday that hurts, it is the break in the habit that I feel. Regular prayer holds me when I do miss a Sunday and keeps me wanting to not miss a Sunday.

My prayer life, and my recent re-commitment to daily reading from the Psalms, Benedict's Rule, and Sister Joan's reflections are nurturing my participation both in my faith and in family and work. While my calling(s) remain unchanged (Spiritual development, my wife and family, my work, my church/oblate communities) I find a bit more brightness in all of them now.

As Benedict outlines, this is a school where we can develop to be more what God is calling us to be, to become more like Christ. The reward, as I keep to the basics of prayer, reading, and reflection, is I occasionally see flashes of something just beyond my reach, just beyond my view. I think finally I am beginning to let go of the frustration of not seeing "the goal" clearly and simply enjoying the journey.

A Note To Anyone Reading:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Comments are welcome, and encouraged, please use the blog comment feature.

Feb 12 - Right Where I Am

Hallelujah!
Praise the Lord, O my soul! *
I will praise the Lord as long as I live;
I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.
Psalm 146:1

From Easter until the first of November, the winter arrangement for the number of psalms is followed. But because summer nights are shorter, the readings from the book are omitted.
Benedict's Rule, 10:1-2 (Chittister, Pg. 106)

...the message of Benedictine spirituality is a consistent one: live life normally, live life thoughtfully, live life profoundly, live life well. Never neglect and never exaggerate.
Chittister, Pg. 106

(From my journal entry on Thursday 12-Feb-2015)
I see the message here is living life. Not necessarily the life that I think I "should" have, but to live the life that I do have. I am not here to create my own world, but to be a part of the existing world, the world God has created. All the "I wishes" and "it should bes" are not what is. I can't start someplace other than right here, where I am. Even if I know the hilltop right over there provides a better view, I am not there. I start where I am so I can move to "there".

Just because I am on this path doesn't mean I am something different from myself. I am still me. I do, however, see places I want to go, and thus can move from where I am.

A Note To Anyone Reading:

This entry is part of a series that is developing as I read The Rule of Benedict, A Spirituality for the 21st Century, Joan Chittister, OSB, Crossroads, 2010. I am offering this both to those at St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington VA, that may be reading this book and to anyone that is interested.

Unless stated otherwise quotes from St. Benedict's Rule are from the translation in this same book.Psalms are from The Book of Common Prayer, The Episcopal Church, 1979 unless otherwise noted.

Comments are welcome, and encouraged, please use the blog comment feature.