Perspective on Balance

The Rule of Benedict offers insights on balance for everyday life. Balance is an outcome of attending to the whole person and providing good order “so that everything may be done at the proper time” (RB 47.1). Benedictine spirituality addresses the whole person (body, mind and spirit) by ordering the day to provide time for prayer, study and work. This holistic view shapes a way of life conducive to growth and integration.

Perspective on Awareness

The Prologue to The Rule of Benedict begins with a call for the seeker to “Listen carefully” and reminds us how life is a teacher of universal truths. While we take a breath to find focus, we seek to be aware of God’s presence and of that which we are being called to do. Once we open our minds and our hearts to a wisdom beyond our own, we can be guided to make a thoughtful decision and put it into action.

Perspective on Work

Benedictine spirituality requires and offers balance. Chapter 48 of The Rule of Benedict details daily manual labor within a monastic community, and it offers insight into the power of spirituality. The language is direct and the interpretation powerful. As people become consumed by what they do, the Rule reminds us that taking time to read, reflect and seek the presence of God is a pathway to enlightened living in the here and now.

Perspective on Prayer

Chapter 20 of The Rule of Benedict suggests that "prayer should be short and pure, unless perhaps it is prolonged under the inspiration of divine grace." Prayer is used to establish a relationship with God and connect with God's constant presence in our lives. That connection moves us beyond reciting prayers to making daily life a prayer through our actions.