A faithful saying: for if we be dead with him, we shall live also with him.

St Benedict wrote his Rule for Monks* as a school for the Lord's service. In this workshop of the soul, he presents a series of tools or instruments of good works to aid reforming the will. No.47 calls us to the end and judgement, to keep death daily before one's eyes.

It is a two fold call, the daily death to self in imitation of the Christ’s self-emptying love and the soon-coming mortal death that will overtake all. St Benedict reminds his monks to be sober, to be vigilant, to be attentive. Now is the time to turn away from evil and do the good.

Death will come at an unlooked for hour, like a thief in the night. Let us be like the five wise virgins, prepared for the unexpected guest.

8 x 10”

* And nuns and oblates, for what it is worth.