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VII II. Rule of Life

Simplifying Life Through Order

Monastic rules began in the fourth century, shortly after the monastic movement began in Egypt and Syria. Monastic rules organized and explained the guidelines for their communities. One of the most famous rules is the Rule of St. Benedict, very much spread by a ringing endorsement from Pope St. Gregory the Great. The Order of St. Benedict states that this rule, laid out in seventy-three chapters, sets out “times for common prayer, meditative reading, and manual work”. It even goes into such detail to include instructions on what to wear, how to sleep, what to eat and drink, travel, etc. but what is at the heart of this rule is the Benedictine motto ora et labora. Pray and work. Another practice is the Rule of St. Augustine, which is much shorter but at its core is instruction on how to live community life well. It states that the religious community, in order to live in harmony must be “of one mind and heart on the way to God”. Surely a tip given from St. Luke in Acts 4:32 when we read of the community having one heart and mind, not claiming possessions but sharing everything in common.

While monastic communities may have been the ones to forge the way when it comes to a written rule of life, this practice is spiritually fruitful for the laity as well. Through prayer and reflection we can listen to what God is calling us to and determine what is important to us. Writing our own rule of life, mission statement, or family charism can help to rightly order our days according to what God has called us to, while also holding us accountable. In a way, it simplifies our life, because we have listed both our values and priorities, which in turn points us in a specific direction. It is a tool to keep our eyes focused on Jesus while also being intentional in how we serve Him.

From Monastic Communities to Personal Mission

Just like monastic communities have different charisms, so too does each individual and family. I have friends who have created a family mission statement that they have stuck to since marriage. I know others who have adjusted it throughout life’s changing seasons or have at least evaluated it at the end of each year, making changes accordingly. I know one couple, unable to have children. Despite this cross, they live selflessly and generously, and in doing so, bear much spiritual fruit. The mission statement they have written as a couple is “Simplicitas et Humilitas cum Compassio et Cartias, cum Delectatio” which means, “Simplicity, Humility, Charity, and Compassion…with Delight”. In addition to writing their own family prayer, they have also written out their charism of hospitality, “To offer a place of warmth and welcome where the visitor - Christ - can discuss any topic in an atmosphere filled with Christ’s love. We pray for all who enter our home”. They evangelize through their hospitality and I have been blessed to witness it.

Whether single, engaged, married, or with children, creating a rule of life can be such a gift. A gift not only for you and your own pursuit of holiness, but a gift to the world, as you evangelize to others through the graces you have received through your new commitment to prayer or service. Putting pen to paper and writing down a rule of life is a great way to be encouraged and stay focused.

Now that the penitential Lenten season has made way for the joy of the Easter season, we are ready to wash our hands of our lenten observances. But could we create space in our lives to continue giving Him more? Perhaps through our own rule of life committing to daily spiritual reading, praying the Rosary, or starting our day off with just five minutes of silence with the Lord?

How does the Lord make Himself known to others through your witness, and what might He be calling you on to more specifically?

Consider your rule of life your love letter to the Lord.