August 9, 2021
by Angela Maynard
Creighton University's Student Health Education and Compliance Office
click here for photo and information about the writer

Monday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 413

Deuteronomy 10:12-22
Psalm 147:12-13, 14-15, 19-20
Matthew 17:22-27

Praying Ordinary Time


Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer

Praying in Times of Crisis

In today’s gospel, we find Jesus spending time with his disciples in Galilee.  He forewarns them of what his future holds for him:

"The Son of Man is to be handed over to men,
and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day."

And they were overwhelmed with grief.

This is one of several times throughout the gospels where Jesus mentions his coming torture, death, and resurrection.  Of course his dear friends were grief-stricken. 

We know that we will all die someday.  Are we living life with this in mind?

Recent events have caused me to pause and reflect on what I’ve done in my professional life and questioning my purpose and direction.  I’ve mentioned in my reflections in the past, that I truly believe my role as a nurse is my vocation.  So, I’ve pondered much more than just my professional life…

I’ve spent some wonderful time with Jesus asking for guidance and direction.  A difficult time has turned into a blessing of sorts…most days.

I highly encourage each of us to take some time to reflect on the impact of Jesus revelation to his disciples.  How are we living each day?  Are we living the life that God has designed for us?  How do my actions or inactions impact others?  Really think about this. 

I’ve come to two conclusions during this summer of reflection.  Here they are:

  • We were put on this earth to care for each other—no matter what!
  • We will be where we are supposed to be—God is the one in control.

My focus now is to ‘trust the process.”  Jesus knew what was ahead, as did his disciples.  I don’t know what is ahead.  Most of us don’t.  But should that really matter? 

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.   - Jeremiah 29:11

Angela wrote this reflection for this day in 2019.

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to the writer of this reflection.
angelamaynard@creighton.edu

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