Monday, July 11, 2022

 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.