Work. Some people hate it. Others love it. And still others tolerate it. Actually, working gives us many opportunities for service. It matters not if you are the CEO, a member of the maintenance staff or a barista, having a job and doing it well is quite satisfying.

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In the Holy Rule, St. Benedict instructs his followers to pray and work (ora et labora). There is dignity in having something to do that enhances the lives of others. As in most cases one’s attitude plays a big part in what we do and how we do it. Years ago, I remember reading a book that offered this passage (quoted only from my memory): “A man encountered workers building a church, asking the first, ‘What are you doing?’ ‘I’m drilling a hole.’ he replied. Then to the second, ‘What are you doing?’ ‘I’m washing a window,’ came the reply. To the third worker who was sweeping the floor, he asked, ‘What are you doing?’ ‘I’m building a cathedral!’ he proudly exclaimed.

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The primary work of monastics is what Benedict calls the work of God, and nothing is to be preferred to it. That is why, as the chapel bells sound, we put down whatever we are working on and go to the work of God. Whatever else we are doing can wait. It will be there when we return. Praying for the people of God, proclaiming God’s glory, remembering those in most need is the most important work.

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No matter what work we undertake, we pray with the psalmist (Psalm 90), “Give success to the work of our hands. Give success to the work of our hands.”