Writing reflections provides me such blessings – left on my own I would not immerse myself in the readings and the search into deeper understanding of the meanings. This reflection allows me to once again reflection on our Mother Mary. It was so rewarding to read about Our Lady of Guadalupe and the beautiful interactions with Juan Diego. I was familiar with the image of this apparition – the painting of Our Lady in her rich colors and the well-known background cloak. However, I did not know the “whole story” and was blessed to learn more. Since the apparitions occurred over a number of days, it is fascinating to read of the dialogue and interactions as well as the miracles. I loved the response from our Mother and, as the words in bold below provide, is a wonderful reminder of our relationship with Mary. She is, indeed, our Mother, our role model, our safe haven.
Let not your heart be disturbed. Do not fear that sickness, nor any other sickness or anguish. Am I not here, who is your Mother? Are you not under my protection? Am I not your health? Are you not happily within my fold? What else do you wish? Do not grieve nor be disturbed by anything.
Our readings today tell of a different time for Mary – whether it is the annunciation or the visitation with Elizabeth, Mary is a young girl, a virgin, who has been the recipient of the biggest “ask” of history. I try to imagine (as I have many times throughout my life) how this was for Mary. She’s so young and to receive the message that she did from Gabriel must have been overwhelming. Imagine the complexity of saying yes and the consequences that would follow. What does saying yes mean? How will she explain this to her mother and father? How about explaining it to her betrothed, Joseph? Yet, although she questions how this is possible, she says yes! She demonstrates a faith that is beyond anything that I can imagine. She also demonstrates great faith in Joseph – clearly a good, Godly man who may initially doubt her story yet nonetheless supports her. How did she know he would be so kind?
As a mother (and grandmother/great grandmother), I wonder what Mary thought about her future. Those of us who are parents remember how many questions arose for us as we first thought about our children’s future. Even before we saw their beautiful, wrinkled faces, we anticipated. Who would they look like? Will they be healthy? What will they be when they grow up? Did Mary deal with that myriad of questions? Did Mary have any idea of her baby’s future? Did she know the sacrifice He would make for us? So many questions in my mind of how a young, innocent girl could take on this enormous responsibility seemingly without anxiety rather with a pure, open heart. There is only one explanation: unwavering FAITH!
This song represents the essence of Mary so clearly that I must have it here for today: Hail Mary, Gentle Woman
Since we are close to the Nativity, I have to include my favorite version of Mary, Did You Know? It capture the many questions, we have as parents about the future of our children in the unique circumstance that Mary faced.
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.
