RB Reflection: 12 July 2008

Chapter 34. Distribution of Goods According to Need

It is written: Distribution was made to each one as s/he had need (Acts 4:35). By this we do not imply that there should be favoritism--God forbid--but rather consideration for weaknesses. Whoever needs less should thank God and not be distressed, but whoever needs more should feel humble because of his weakness, not self-important because of the kindness shown him. In this way all the members will be at peace. First and foremost, there must be no word or sign of the evil of grumbling, no manifestation of it for any reason at all. If, however, anyone is caught grumbling, let him/her undergo more severe discipline.

Don't show favorites, but be considerate of weakness. Benedict bases this upon just one verse of scripture -- an oddity for him -- and from it makes a rule about favoritism, and consideration of weakness. It takes no imagination to see how easily favoritism could:
1. increase the amount given to one, simply because we like him/her better, and
2. less be given to one, whom actually needs more, because we don't like him/her as well.

It is human nature to give generously to our friends, to make sure they have enough, and even more than enough. To those whom we don't like so much, we give "just enough," and not a bit more. Benedict says NO to both of those attitudes.

Whoever needs less should thank God and not be distressed, but whoever needs more should feel humble because of his weakness, not self-important because of the kindness shown him.

That fairly well puts the kibosh on the strong sneering at the weak, and the weak from saying, "see how special I am? I get more than you do." If we are honest, we all know people who fall into one category or the other. Which category are you in?

The chapter ends on the subject of grumbling. As Lay Cistercians we need to think about how much grumbling we do, at our meetings, at our retreats, in our day to day lives, with our families, etc. etc. etc.

We are the face of the Cistercian Charism to the world. We must guard the Charism by not being a bunch of grumbling folks who have pet favorites at work, and sneer at those we don't like so much. And no, I don't think we do so much of that. Yet, this is the section of the rule for today, and these questions and challenges must be raised, lest we forget.

May God bring us altogether (even grumblers) to everlasting life.