Before Benedict shifts our attention to communal order and discipline, he concludes his instructions on the hours of prayer emphasizing that we must remain aware that we pray to the Almighty God and we must maintain an attitude of reverence as we pray.
Soldiers are constantly aware of rank. Officers are honored for their roles. Sergeants are respected by junior soldiers. Subordinates acknowledge the presence of seniors in their speech and actions; juniors saluting and standing in the presence of seniors. The military example pales in comparison to our approach to the Creator of all, the Sustainer of all, the Judge of all, the King of all, and the God who calls us to Himself from His love. The difference between a young soldier’s respect, and a degree of fear, for very senior officers and our reverence of Almighty God is as great as the meanings of the two words; respect and reverence. To respect another is to appreciate, give differential, show high esteem for them. After “rank has its privileges” right? However, the concept of reverence is taken from two Hebrew words, yare’ and shachah. The first word carries the idea of holy fear or very deep honor. The second word suggests that one falls and prostrates oneself in the presence of the one revered.[1]
Saint Benedict opens this chapter by illustrating the respect that we demonstrate to others in authority or high office as a mere shadow of the devote humility which we must show to God. We must realize that our prayer is not merely ritual nor spiritual exercise, but we are in communion with the Almighty God; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Being in communion with Him, we show honor by speaking thoughtfully, concisely, and our intercessions must be heartfelt in both word and confidence of their hearing. Likewise, we take time to be silent before God and hear His Spirit commune with our spirits. Prayer is not a thing done lightly, but earnestly.
Recently, I was honored to celebrate Mass at a local church. Standing in front of the altar, I physically felt a weightiness of the role that I had been given. As I began praying the prayers of consecration that weight increased to the point that I was unable to speak. I dropped to my knees in silence, weeping in the real presence of Christ Himself. As we approach The Lord in prayer, we must remember that we are in true communion with God. He invites us to share our desires, concerns, convictions, and adoration of Him. We also seek that opportunity to be still before our God and hear from Him. Prayer is communion. Communion provides space to be heard and to listen. That communion provides nourishment to the soul, strengthening our faith, and forming the spirit.
God come to my assistance.
Lord make haste to help me.
In the name of the Father, and the Son,
and the Holy Spirit. As it was in the
beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. AMEN.
—–
[1] Psalm 111:9.
