RB: Ch 40 The Proper Amount of Drink
Mass: Ex 11:10-12:14; Resp Ps 116; Mt 12:1-8
How shall I make a return to the Lord for all the good he has done for me?
I DESIRE MERCY, NOT SACRIFICE.
One way to comment on Jesus' words above, an echo of the Prophet Hosea (6:6), is to look to St Benedict and his chapters on the proper amount of food and drink (RB 39 and 40). The beginning of Ch 40 is telling: "Everyone has his own gift from God, one this and another that (1 Cor 7:7). It is, therefore, with some uneasiness that we specify the amount of food and drink for others" (40:1-2). Benedict is not absolute in his teaching; accommodations should be made as needs and conditions vary. Benedict takes into account individual weaknesses, availability of seasonal produce, physical workload, age, health needs. Benedict also gives the abbess or abbot authority to determine the needs of her particular community and make adjustments as needed. What is of utmost importance? Benedict is clear: Above all else we admonish community members to refrain from grumbling (RB 40:9).
If a family is too small for a whole lamb, it shall join the nearest household in procuring one and shall share in the lamb in proportion to the number of persons who partake of it.
(Ex 12:4)
HEART OF JESUS, PATIENT AND RICH IN MERCY,
HAVE MERCY ON US.
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