Today we start Holy Week – a time in our calendar where we experience great joy and yet know of great sorrow to come followed by the most glorious day for us. Our readings throughout the week allow us to journey with Jesus as He prepares for the greatest sacrifice ever.
The gospel is one that has always interested me. Being rather frugal, I could on the surface see Judas’ point about doing good for so many. As a young child that made sense but I did not understand Judas’ real motivation about money and the importance of appreciating that value is relative. Then as I was older I became to understand how valuable even moments with those we love are. Losing my father at a young age, I cherish time with family. However, as I reflect on this and write these words, I must face that my actions are not always in line with this value. While I desire to serve others and this is a good thing and expected if I am to follow in the path of Jesus, I must keep it all in perspective. As Jesus points out to his followers,
Leave her alone. Let her keep this for the day of my burial.
You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.
Jesus was foretelling of His death later this week and His return to His Father. The one thing that we do know is that although Jesus is not physically here with us, His presence is nonetheless real. I do know that I need that presence in my life. Even when I drift in my actions and am not totally true to what I know is the path to follow, I can feel that presence. I was recently at a concert with MercyMe – a contemporary Christian music group. Their songs touched deep into my heart – listening for an entire evening to how Jesus is there, how my God is GREATER than anything here, how no matter what, I am never alone. What I need to remember over and over is that the promise is God with Us (Emmanual) not that the way will be easy, just that I will not be alone. Of course, they finished with I can only Imagine -- the song that has us wondering about what it will be when we stand in front of God. Will we dance? Will we sing Alleulia? Will we fall to our knees speechless? I wonder and fret about my worthiness yet truly believe the cross has won the war, no matter how many battles I lose.
As I struggle to keep my focus on what’s most important in this world, I am often called back to my center by music. This one helps me to remember that it is not about me and what I do here. Anything I do should always be focused on glorifying God and emulating Jesus not for my rewards but to keep Jesus present to others.
Only Jesus by Casting Crowns
Nancy Shirley
I returned to Creighton in December 2003 having previously taught at Creighton from 1980-1989 and involved in many campus activities including ILAC and CEC House. Since returning, assumed Faculty and Administrative roles on both Omaha and Phoenix campus prior to retirement August 2022. Served as the Nursing Director for ILAC from 2013 – 2021 and as a reservist in the Army Nurse Corps for 23 years.
I am a grateful child of God, wife, mother, nana, and retired nursing professor. My husband and I met at church and have walked this extraordinary journey together experiencing CEC in 2004 and growing more committed to our beliefs. In addition to my husband, I am blessed with a wonderful daughter and son, who in turn are blessed with wonderful partners. My son’s four children bring us all endless joy and delight. My daughter’s daughter (our youngest grandchild in Phoenix) has been a true gift beyond description. In early 2023, I became a Great-grandma!! I am now retired faculty at Creighton having taught nursing here from 1980-1989 and returned “home” in 2003 to teach nursing at all levels and to administer the undergraduate program on both campuses until 2022. My mantra has been My life is God’s gift to me; what I do with my life is my gift to God!!
Now in retirement, I appreciate more and more all the ways that I find God in my life especially through my family and garden and through music and song. I find listening to Christian music daily in the car keeps the right message in my head. It is, indeed, a blessing to be part of this ministry. Writing reflections is an opportunity to ponder the readings deeply in my heart and to share those musings and some music that further touches my soul. I am a recipient of God’s grace with each one I write.
