July 11 – If It is Possible

Saint Benedict, Saint Claire, Saint Francis and other founders of monastic orders “tweaked” Romans 12:18 just a little:

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

They were convinced that it was quite possible to live at peace with others. That was an essential of abbey life.

Of course, those who came to them were committed at the door so to do. That does help.

Others who did not remain often left, not because they could not pray or could not practice silence, but because they could not dwell in peace within the house.

It is so important . . . it is vital! . . . that we in Cor Unum take these words to heart. Could we “tweak” things even a little in our homes and churches and on the job so that, AS FAR AS IT DEPENDS ON US, we are living at peace with those around us?

There will always be conflicts and disappointments and difficulties and misunderstandings, but we can go far toward bringing peace to these troubled corners. We may not win every point or every battle against strife, but AS FAR AS IT DEPENDS ON US . . . is a pretty long way!


Carefree Corridors
photo by Kerry