The responsorial psalm for today immediately got my attention as I first reviewed the readings. Such a simple request: Teach me your ways, O Lord. Yet, in many aspects this simple request becomes the mantra for a life that is dedicated to living as we were intended.
As a cradle Catholic and educated with the Baltimore Catechism, my prayers growing up were the “usual” using the printed words. As I grew up, I gradually felt comfortable to add my needs and concerns to these printed words and to embellish with what was on my heart. I’m sure that changes brought forth by the Second Ecumenical Council encouraged this perspective for me. I was hearing so much more in the language I understand. And … I wanted to read/hear more. My heart was open to ask (certainly not this eloquently):
Teach me your ways, O Lord.
Your ways, O LORD, make known to me;
teach me your paths,
Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my savior.
It seems that we are constantly bombarded with things, events, and, even, people that detour us from that path that is the Truth and the Way. It is so easy to follow the road that leads to the material aspects of life and forget the most important “things” (that usually are not things at all) along the way.
I was curious about St. Lucy since the early martyrs always seemed to follow the “right path.” She clearly was not inclined to take the path of most young women of her time. Rather than be married and, as a wealthy daughter, provide a sizable dowery to her new husband, she convinced her mother to donate those funds to the poor. Needless to say it was not well received by her betrothed and the persecution began. How does anyone find that courage to do the “right thing” no matter what the consequences? Where does that inner strength live in each us and how do we harness it? Our psalm conveys the answer if we are willing to open our hearts and trust.
Good and upright is the LORD;
thus he shows sinners the way.
He guides the humble to justice,
he teaches the humble his way.
This past week, I found myself needing to have a challenging discussion. I felt it was “the right thing” to do, however difficult it may be. I always pray to my guardian angel to fortify me in these situations. However, I had reinforcements this time – one of my friends who knew this was going to happen gave me an early Christmas present, a bracelet with the inscription: God is in her. She will not fall. It was all I could do to not tear up (as I am as I write this). I immediately put it on! The card that came with it was all I needed – then and in any situation I will face:
Wear this band as your reminder that you are never alone.
Let these words reassure you and echo in your soul that God is always with you.
His love will fill your heart. If you leap, He will catch you.
With God at your side, you will not fall. You are supported and protected in all that you do.
Of course, a song for your continued reflection:
Less like me – Zach Williams
*** By the way, the discussion went amazingly well. Better than I could have expected!! God Wink - AGAIN!! ***
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.
