By Sister Ruth Ksycki, OSB

You will show me the path of life; you are my hope and shelter; in your presence is endless joy, at your side is my home forever. (Responsorial Psalm 16 on the Passing of St. Benedict)

What a comfort to know God is showing us the path and being at our side: the feeling of home! 

How easy to feel that comfort as we pray, walk in the woods, or listen to beautiful music.

The challenge comes when – in our daily life – God calls us to be patient, to let go of our prejudices, preferences, and agendas; to be kind and merciful; to recall that we are in God’s presence and must be as Jesus was with others. 

That is why St. Benedict says we need to be stretched and converted day after day as we interact with our sisters and brothers. 

Not easy, but worth it to feel at home in God’s presence.