Although the Life of a Monk
A monk's life should be marked by purity and restraint, and during Lent, one should increase their service through private prayers and abstinence.
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.
Text
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.
Sermon Outline
- The Character of a Monk's Life
- Prayer and Virtue
- Increasing Service
- Private Prayers and Abstinence
- Offering to God with Joy
Key Quotes
“Let us increase somewhat the usual burden of our service, as by private prayers and by abstinence in food and drink.” — St. Benedict of Nursia
“From his body, that is, he may withhold some food, drink, sleep, talking and jesting;” — St. Benedict of Nursia
“Let each one, however, suggest to his Abbot what it is that he wants to offer,” — St. Benedict of Nursia
Application Points
- Increase your service during Lent by adding private prayers and abstinence in food and drink.
- Get your Abbot's blessing and approval before offering something to God.
- Restrain yourself from vices and give yourself up to prayer with tears, reading, and compunction of heart.