\n<\/p>\n
Saint Benedict has a special place in his Rule for eternity.
\nThe eternal life is usually a subject that many people run away from because in
\norder to fully enjoy eternity one needs to confront death. Well, that’s what
\nmany think. The Lord’s promise of eternal life and many of benefits can be
\nenjoyed before one dies. In fact, that’s what the sacraments give us: a
\nforetaste of eternity. Baptism opens the door, washes away sin, imparts grace,
\nand makes one an adopted child of God; the Eucharist nourishes our spiritual
\nlife, and builds communion with the Trinity; Confirmation imparts the Gifts of
\nthe Holy Spirit and Beatitude, etc. Sacraments give the faithful a share in
\nBeatitude if lived in a state of grace and according to the Eight Beatitudes. <\/p>\n
The
\nquestion really is what the Apostle Paul said, and what is adhered to by true Christians, particularly saints, “To
\nme to live is Christ,” (Mihi Vivere Christus<\/i>)” (Phil: 1, 21). Living means being closely united, in communion<\/i>, with Christ. Catholics live in Christ<\/i> by living the sacraments and according to Scripture but the teaching of the saints also illumine our path.<\/p>\n
A verse in
\nthe Prologue to Saint Benedict’s Rule refocuses us:<\/p>\n