Service and Hospitality: The Rule of Benedict on Serving the Sick

Benedict of Nursia devoted an entire chapter of his Rule to the care of the sick: "Care of the sick must rank above and before all else, so that they may truly be served as Christ, for He said: 'I was sick and you visited me,' and 'What you did for one of these least ones, you did for Me.'" Benedict prescribed that a dedicated infirmarian should be appointed -- a wise, diligent, and compassionate person.

Benedict also addressed the sick themselves: "Let the sick on their part bear in mind that they are served out of honor for God, and let them not by their excessive demands distress their brothers who serve them." Service, in Benedict's community, is mutual -- the server gives care, and the one served gives gratitude and patience.

Practical application: Visit someone who is sick or homebound this week. Bring a meal, run an errand, or simply sit and listen. Benedict teaches that visiting the sick is not optional Christian behavior but a fundamental expression of serving Christ Himself. If you cannot visit in person, a phone call or card also serves.