This reflection is from Nancy Shirley from 2015.
The readings for today focus on two main images or themes, one with the sheep and the loving shepherd and the other about rest. While the notion of sheep is not always embraced as a positive one, in these readings the key is the relationship between the sheep and the great shepherd. The first reading encourages us to obey and defer to leaders. This may be met with resistance by many, particularly those of my generation who were “programmed” to reject the Establishment. But before we react I think it is important to understand this context – I do not believe it is about blind following of authority. Rather, it is about following a right and justice leader – one who truly watches over us and has responsibility for our well-being. This leader will be held accountable for leading us in the way of the righteous. The reading also urges us to share our blessings, doing good and sacrificing at times. The great shepherd is there to support us and provide us with “all that is good” that we become the face of Jesus to others. There is the expectation that we are the hands and feet of the Lord, that our actions/our lives will glorify Him.
The responsorial psalm is a familiar one – perhaps the best known. We have frequently heard this at wake services and seen it printed on funeral programs. It not only presents the image of the loving shepherd protecting his sheep and providing what is needed, it also emphasizes the rest and peace that we receive through God. The gospel also speaks of rest. I recently heard someone speak about the holiness of rest. As we think of the Creation story, God made holy that day of rest and that there is a true holiness about rest and renewal. The psalm offers a couple of images of repose and of restful waters and the refreshment that such rest brings. As we dwell in the house of the Lord, we are at rest – we let go and let God. When we truly rest, we recognize that we are not in control; we give it to God and trust in what will come. Resting is not a laziness, rather than a commitment to our Maker, an opportunity to connect and let go of the rush and stress that plagues our everyday lives.
In the gospel, we see themes from the previous two readings – the disciples have been out and about doing good deeds as we are urged to do in the first reading and also the encouragement of rest (Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while) as the psalm also invites us. The last line of the gospel reiterates the thought of us as sheep – except this time we are in need of that shepherd – a shepherd to guide us to a holy life. We are invited – but we must accept the invitation – to find rest and comfort with our Lord, our Good Shepherd. May we always respond with open hearts and mind to the alleluia verse and find our place of rest and peace:
My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord;
I know them, and they follow me.
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.
