Michael F Conrad

The Power of Chapter 4 Michael F Conrad

A Lay Cistercian reflects on Chapter 4 and how it transforms you from self to God. Chapter 4 refers to the Rule of St. Benedict (480-547 AD) http: //www.ben.edu/center-for-mission-and-identity/resources/ rule-of-st-benedict.cfm Lay Cistercians follow the same the Rule of St. Benedict as interpreted by Cistercian monks and nuns. Lay Cistercians are not monks or nuns, they live in the world, have families, attend local Faith Communities, have jobs. They all make promises to convert their lives to be like Christ using Cistercian practices of silence, solitude, work, prayer in the context of community. This is a book of reflections I had about Chapter 4, while performing Lectio Divina (Sacred Reading) on Philippians 2:5). Chapter 4 is a practice to try to do every day. I read Chapter 4 every day so that I might become what I read. I am not there yet, but, like St. Paul, still run the race to receive the reward in Heaven. I recommend those who are seeking an anchor to their life, a North on their compass, a purpose to their lives to read Chapter 4 every day. Then, sit back, and follow your heart. These reflections are a series of blogs frm my website: https: //thecenterforcontemplativepractice.org