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  ALTHOUGH THE LIFE OF A MONK
  by St. Benedict of Nursia
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Summary: A monk's life should be marked by purity and restraint, and
during Lent, one should increase their service through private prayers
and abstinence.

Topics: "Lenten Discipline", "Spiritual Growth"
Scripture References: Psalm 37:5, Proverbs 3:6, Proverbs 16:3, Proverbs 16:9, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Ephesians 5:10, Philippians 2:13, Colossians 3:23, 1 Thessalonians 1:6, James 4:15

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DESCRIPTION
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St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of observing Lent with
purity and diligence, urging the brethren to cleanse themselves of
negligence through prayer, tears, reading, compunction of heart, and
abstinence. He encourages increasing spiritual practices during Lent,
such as private prayers and fasting, to offer God something beyond the
usual measure. St. Benedict advises seeking the Abbot's approval for any
additional offerings during this time to avoid presumption and
vainglory.

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CONTENT
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Although the life of a monk

ought to have about it at all times

the character of a Lenten observance,

yet since few have the virtue for that,

we therefore urge that during the actual days of Lent

the brethren keep their lives most pure

and at the same time wash away during these holy days

all the negligences of other times.

And this will be worthily done

if we restrain ourselves from all vices

and give ourselves up to prayer with tears,

to reading, to compunction of heart and to abstinence.

During these days, therefore,

let us increase somewhat the usual burden of our service,

as by private prayers and by abstinence in food and drink.

Thus everyone of his own will may offer God

"with joy of the Holy Spirit" (1 Thess. 1:6)

something above the measure required of him.

From his body, that is

he may withhold some food, drink, sleep, talking and jesting;

and with the joy of spiritual desire

he may look forward to holy Easter.

Let each one, however, suggest to his Abbot

what it is that he wants to offer,

and let it be done with his blessing and approval.

For anything done without the permission of the spiritual father

will be imputed to presumption and vainglory

and will merit no reward.

Therefore let everything be done with the Abbot's approval.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/st-benedict-of-nursia/although-the-life-of-a-monk/
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