The Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them out ahead of him, in pairs, to all the towns and places he himself was to visit. He said to them, ‘The harvest is rich but the labourers are few, so ask the Lord of the harvest to send labourers to his harvest. Start off now, but remember, I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. Carry no purse, no haversack, no sandals. Salute no one on the road. Whatever house you go into, let your first words be, “Peace to this house!” And if a man of peace lives there, your peace will go and rest on him; if not, it will come back to you. Stay in the same house, taking what food and drink they have to offer, for the labourer deserves his wages; do not move from house to house. Whenever you go into a town where they make you welcome, eat what is set before you. Cure those in it who are sick, and say, “The kingdom of God is very near to you.”’

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From the Rule of St Benedict:

‘The reason why we have said all should be called for counsel is that the Lord often reveals what is better to the younger.’ RB Chapter 3:3

We usually think that the voice of authority and experience - often the voice of the older members of a community - is right. Benedict, however, says that all should be listened to, and all opinions should be valued. God, help us always to make room for the opinions of others. Help each one of us, whatever position we hold, to ask for your guidance in all that we do. May our decisions be for the good of all.

Amen.

St Scholastica and St Benedict, pray for us.