John Michael Talbot is not only a troubadour of God, but over 25 years ago founded a modern community of men and women. In this book he returns to the roots of Christian monasticism and, based on his own lived experience, comments on the Rule of Benedict, to make its spiritual riches fruitful for us contemporary men and women. He reads the Rule with a modern eye and opens it up as much for people who live in a community as those living in the world of everyday work. For this reason, these meditations are also suitable for Benedictine secular oblates. A life based on the principles of the Rule of Benedict makes the world a more Christian and more human place. And with this, Benedict himself becomes a blessing for our times.Notker Wolf, OSB, Abbot Primate of the Benedictine Order This handy introduction to the Rule of Benedict would be an ideal gift for someone seeking an overview of St. Benedict's teaching. The brief chapter by chapter commentaries take the mystery out of unfamiliar terms and usages from the sixth century. The book explains the original application of the monastic norms and shows how they may be adapted in our time for use in communities and families.Abbot Jerome Kodell, OSB, New Subiaco Abbey