"The young man...went away sad, for he had many possessions." Mt 19:22
The importance of the life and writings of St. Bernard of Clairvaux (1091-1153) can hardly be overstated. His commentary on the Song of Songs remains a classic in the history of Western Spirituality not only for its rich insights but more because it was addressed to adult novices Bernard had recruited to renew monastic life in the Benedictine tradition.
Bernard's genius allowed him to see in empty spirited and broken men returning from the Crusades candidates for religious life. Before Bernard's reform, very young men were promised to the monastery as Oblates by their families. Afterwards, anyone and everyone could join the monastery after a period of discernment. This change resulted in profound renewal of Benedictine life and a radically new catechesis for monks.
In his 10th sermon on the Song of Songs, Bernard invites his novices to drink from the bride's breasts, "the milk of consolation, from the other that of encouragement, according to the need of each." (Song of Songs) Clearly, Bernard wanted to celebrate the human body and imagination as paths to a deeper knowledge and love of God. Cannot we do the same?
Today, let your imagination lead you to prayer.
How do you imagine the church of the 21st century challenging us to pray for naturally?
No comments:
Post a Comment
Please be discreet in your comments. I will monitor the comments, and only exclude those that are patently offensive.