Into the presence of God

Like many of us, I find Sister Joan's observations on the Rule inspired. She finds life in the Rule—rules for living, offering such clarity of thought—ideas that simply elude me. Today's writings, April 25, offer many beautiful illustrations.

Drawing on Benedict's admonitions to those who returned to the monastery after traveling, Sister Joan reminds us that we too need to consciously call ourselves into the presence of God, ever reminding ourselves of the purpose of our lives. The world around us is not an evil place—but our eyes and actions are unconstrained, unless we always act and speak through Him—we must be ever mindful of His presence.

Sister Joanne makes this point in such a human way when she says,

"Life costs.  The values and kitsch and superficiality of it take their toll on all of us. No one walks through life unscathed."  

She invites us to put it all into God's hands. And that whatever happens, we remember to start over and over and over again until someday we control life more than it controls us.

How are we to do this? We are to live in the present—mindful of our behavior—and recognize the consequences of our actions and our wandering minds. How do we do this? Hold that question in your hand until you see that you and He are one.

It is a task of a lifetime....