Memorial of Saint Benedict, abbot
(Isaiah
1:1—17; Matthew 10:34-11:1)
Christians
- Protestants as well as Catholics - have found new interest in St.
Benedict. They see hope for the future
in his founding communities where the gospel may be lived. As a young man, Benedict went to Rome for
higher education. There he became disillusioned
with the way fellow students pursued knowledge.
Rather than as a way to truth, many were more interested in finding
pleasure. He retreated from the city,
became a hermit, and eventually founded monastic communities. Today faith-filled, young families find in
the Benedictine retreat from cities a model.
Rather than trying to raise children amid secularization, they live in
rural communities without severe corrupting influences.
Today’s
gospel should be read in a way that supports separation from the corruption of
the world. Jesus speaks of bringing a
sword to the earth. In no way is he
speaking literally. He means that
following him will separate one from ungodly influences. His followers will live the truth of the
gospel – that they are saved in God’s love through faith in him.
Is it
necessary for people to separate themselves from the world? In some ways, yes. We should resist worldly temptations of
excessive pleasure, power, or prestige.
But this does not mean that we must isolate ourselves from others. Freedom from corruptive influences, however,
does entail reflection, development of virtue, and prayer. In these ways we can follow Christ who leads
us to eternal life.
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