1. Does everyone need a Rule of Life?

Not only does everyone need a Rule of Life, everyone already has one, although not everyone has taken the time to prayerfully consider what their Rule of Life should be. For many their Rule of Life has been imposed upon them by their culture or by well-meaning parents. It may be helpful to think of a Rule of Life as principles by which you live your life.

2. Having a Rule of Life seems so constricting. Is it?

Absolutely not. Do not let the word "rule" scare you. It does not mean law but guide. As a guide, it empowers you to give expression to who God is creating you to be. It frees you from having to live under other people's expectations. A good Rule of Life is profoundly personal. But being personal, it ought not be isolating. A good Rule will include intentional ways that you will nurture relationships of spiritual depth with other people as well as with God. In addition, it would identify your unique spiritual gifts and talents so that, with God's help, you will be able to identify, embrace and develop your unique strengths. Far from being constricting, a good Rule of Life will empower you to graciously and firmly say, "No." when someone asks you to make a commitment that is outside of your Rule of Life.

3. What is the relationship of a Rule of Life to the biblical concept of Covenant?

A "rule of life" is implied in every covenant relationship. The Covenant God makes with Israel at Mt. Sinai in the Book of Exodus includes a Rule, the Ten Commandments.

The Covenant a man and a woman makes in marriage includes a Rule -- "to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish until we are parted by death."

The Baptismal Covenant in the Book of Common Prayer also includes a Rule, to continue: in the apostle's Teaching, in the fellowship, in the breaking of bread (a reference to the Eucharist, communion), in the prayers, to resist Evil, to repent and return to the Lord, to proclaim the Gospel, to seek and serve Christ, to work for justice and peace respecting the dignity of every human being.

A personal Rule of Life describes how you will live out more specifically these broader Rules in your life of faith as you seek to keep covenant with God and neighbor in Christ Jesus.

4. So how do I develop a Rule of Life for myself?

Developing a Rule of Life begins with prayer. It is also important not to try to develop it alone, in isolation. It is best to seek the counsel and wisdom of trusted friends in faith. (Often other people know us better than we know ourselves.) We have developed a Lenten program to help you develop your rule of life. On Wednesday evenings through Lent you will hear a presentation on specific spiritual disciplines. You will also have the opportunity to gather with others in a small group to explore what others are doing. Finally, you will receive a workbook that will help you to develop a Rule of Life that reflects your unique gifts, and personality as the Holy Spirit is at work in you bring you to completion - a life of wholeness and grace.

5. What does a Rule of Life look like?

First, it is reasonable. This is not a rule for super saints. It is a rule for a real person, you, in the fullness of your humanity.

Second, it should "feel" natural, while allowing room for your own transformation in faith. It should reflect your current reality while acknowledging that God is calling you to even better things in the days, months and years ahead.

Third, it should be brief.

Fourth, it should address the following questions:

1. How will I nurture my personal faith through prayer and bible study?
2. How will I discipline my time, being careful to acknowledge the priority of God in all things?
3. How will I develop a group of faithful friends who will pray for me and support me, and whom I can support?
4. How will I discipline my relationship to money to guard against money dependency and money idolatry?
5. How will I discover and live out my unique vocation drawing on the spiritual gifts and talents God has given me to fulfill my role in the Kingdom of God and in the world?
6. How will I reach out to others in Jesus' name, sharing his grace and love with others?

6. What will my Rule of Life to do for me?

Your Rule will help you to feel more anchored and stable in the world. It will also clarify your sense of purpose. It will remind you that life is not all about you. It is about learning how to love God with your mind, soul and strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself. Your Rule will help you to do that.