The readings for today are wonderful in that they are both reassuring and challenging. As I read them I was filled with encouragement knowing that I have entertained angles and challenged by the gospel to question how I live my faith.
The first reading encourages us to let our love show, to focus on the most important aspects of life. I loved the part about not neglecting hospitality, for through it some have unknowingly entertained angels. I know that I have been blessed by many angels in my life – some I did not immediately appreciate. I pray regularly throughout the day to my Guardian Angel whose presence I am very much aware of during difficult times. This reading also reminded to not be afraid – we will never be forsaken.
The opening stanza is the responsorial psalm says it all: the LORD is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The LORD is my life’s refuge; of whom should I be afraid? There is such power and comfort in those words. Chris Tomlin has a new song entitled, Whom shall I fear? The lyrics really pull together both of these readings with the idea of angel armies at our side. The words are wonderful …
I know who goes before me
I know who stands behind
The God of Angel Armies
Is always by my side
The one who reigns forever
He is a friend of mine
The God of Angel Armies
Is always by my side
When I read the gospel I immediately remembered a movie from the 50’s or 60’s that depicted this story in a very vivid scene. King Herod watched the frenzied dance and was totally entertained making promises that he would regrettably have to keep. I also remembered that growing up at that time there seemed to be many movies of this kind: the “epic” Ben Hur, The Robe, and Quo Vadis to name a few. They are still vivid in my memory because they inspired and intrigued me. I read the books that they were based on with great relish. I imagined what life was for the followers of Christ when he was alive and pondered the hardships of early Christians. I was mesmerized by the challenges they faced. As a child, I would imagine being there. How would I act? What would I do? Obviously, I did not live then so I was not “tested” in that same way. The real question is in my life now, how do I live up to the challenges. Oh, I’m not worried that I have to face lions or soldiers coming to persecute or torture me (although still reality for many Christians in other countries). Do I face challenges in standing up for what I believe to be right and true? Do I stay quiet when my voice should be heard? Do my actions indicate my beliefs? Do I walk “hand in hand?” Will “they know I am Christian by my love, by my love? Will they know I am Christian by my love?”
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.
