How the Monks Are to Sleep
Feb. 27
Let each one sleep in a separate bed. Let them receive bedding suitable to their manner of life, according to the Abbot’s directions. If possible, let all sleep in one place; but if the number does not allow this, let them take their rest by tens or twenties with the seniors who have charge of them. A candle shall be kept burning in the room until morning. Let the monks sleep clothed and girded with belts or cords — but not with their knives at their sides, lest they cut themselves in their sleep — and thus be always ready to rise without delay when the signal is given and hasten to be before one another at the Work of God, yet with all gravity and decorum. The younger brethren shall not have beds next to one another, but among those of the older ones.
When they rise for the Work of God let them gently encourage one another, that the drowsy may have no excuse.
Reflection
The Lord watches over us twenty-four hours a day, day and night, and we must always be ready to serve Him. (One might add that, on our side, everything, absolutely every moment, every instant of our existence belongs to God, Who for His part is always with us.) We have chosen God among all the many choices we have to make each day, and choosing God means choosing to love Him now, at this very moment. We could describe this as our way of living in His presence even when we are asleep. We rise each morning in order to celebrate His name and His glory. Little by little we shall become fully open to the Holy Spirit day and night keeping nothing hidden away for ourselves.
