Tuesday, 5th Week of Ordinary Time (II)

February 10,2004

by Rev. Herbert Nichols

Special moments do not come often into a person’s life; like the dedication of the Temple for King Solomon or the highly unusual event which happened to St. Scholastica.

She was the twin sister of St. Benedict. Both had established monastic orders; their communities separated by a few miles walk. Because they were siblings, they were permitted to leave their residence and visit each other, once annually, for spiritual conversation and prayer together.

On this one occasion, darkness had begun to set in. Benedict rose to return to his monastery but Scholastica pleaded that he remain a while longer. When he refused to violate compliance with his own monastic rule, Scholastica prayed for a storm to prevent his departure. Her prayer was answered and the two were able to continue in prayer and sharing well through the night.

But as it turns out, it was the last time that they would see each other because Scholastica died shortly after. It was a very special moment, not only for a brother and sister, but between fellow Christians in the presence of God.

Perhaps in the busy schedule of today’s life we might think of times for joined prayer and Christian conversation as optional extras. But they invite us into the substance of life. The ancient words of Genesis are true of all of us. "It is not good for anyone to be alone. "

We need times of shared prayer, laughter, conversation, and even sorrow. Whatever form they may take they are gifts from God. It is important to pause and let the Holy Spirit work in our life through others, especially through their friendship. Such moments as they are may be brief but they have the power and grace to fill a lifetime.