Yesterday the Church commemorated St. Bernard of Clairvaux. When the pandemic started, the clergy in the diocese were given a document about ministry in the time of COVID-19. For some reason I looked at it earlier this week and noticed that St. Bernard was quoted in the section about Physical and Spiritual Self Care.
“The one who is wise, therefore, will see their life as more like a reservoir than a canal. The canal simultaneously pours out what it receives; the reservoir retains the water till it is filled, then discharges the overflow without loss to itself ... Today there are many in the Church who act like canals, the reservoirs are far too rare ... You too must learn to await this fullness before pouring out your gifts, do not try to be more generous than God.” [St. Bernard of Clairvaux, “On the Song of Songs”]
St. Bernard’s imagery is helpful as he reminds us that we need to rest and re-create. This is important and even more so in the midst of uncertainly. We cannot fulfil Jesus’ command of loving our neighbour as ourself if we have nothing to give.
Building on St. Bernard’s imagery, I am reminded of when Jesus described himself as the living water to the woman at the well [John 4 v1-45]. Jesus offered the woman life then and he offers us life now. In Jesus we have this life-giving ‘reservoir’ to rest in.
How are you refreshing yourself physically and spiritually at this moment?
What hobbies and spiritual practices have you re-discovered that are filling up your ‘reservoir'?
I pray that you continue to deepen your relationship with Christ and I continue to give thanks for the generous sharing of your gifts with those in this Church community and the wider community.
God bless-
Tom
