I am currently part of a book group that is studying the Rule of Benedict as part of our Lenten journey.
For many, the hardest part of the Benedictine way is giving up personal freedom, and living a highly disciplined and structured life under the direction of an abbot or prioress.
Here are two quotations from the Rule.
‘The first degree of humility is obedience without delay.’
‘Not only is the virtue of obedience to be shown by all to the abbot, but let the brethren likewise obey one another, knowing that by this way of obedience they will come to God.’
The theory is that giving up one’s freedom in this manner can create new forms of freedom, such as:
• Freedom from the tyranny of the ego (pride and selfishness),
• Freedom through structure and stability, thus reducing the stress of constant decision-making.
I'm at "the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak" stage. Struggling to let go of my will and release it to God...to trust in the Way of Christ instead of relying on my own strength. Thanks for sharing!
I am currently part of a book group that is studying the Rule of Benedict as part of our Lenten journey.
For many, the hardest part of the Benedictine way is giving up personal freedom, and living a highly disciplined and structured life under the direction of an abbot or prioress.
Here are two quotations from the Rule.
‘The first degree of humility is obedience without delay.’
‘Not only is the virtue of obedience to be shown by all to the abbot, but let the brethren likewise obey one another, knowing that by this way of obedience they will come to God.’
The theory is that giving up one’s freedom in this manner can create new forms of freedom, such as:
• Freedom from the tyranny of the ego (pride and selfishness),
• Freedom through structure and stability, thus reducing the stress of constant decision-making.
• Freedom from fear and uncertainty.
This has truly blessed me, thank you.
I'm at "the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak" stage. Struggling to let go of my will and release it to God...to trust in the Way of Christ instead of relying on my own strength. Thanks for sharing!