When I review the readings before writing a reflection, a theme frequently jumps out from one of them, sometimes even a responsorial psalm. Today’s readings were different; it was the very last line of the gospel that really spoke to me. John the Baptist did not hesitate as he proclaimed:
He must increase; I must decrease
It’s been a “crazy” time in the last couple of months: preparing food for large gatherings, rushing to buy Black Friday deals (that are STILL being advertised on-line!!), picking out just the right gift for everyone on the list, making perfect cookies, putting up the perfect decorations to outdo last year (and the neighbors), buying matching family pajamas for cute Christmas morning pictures, making end of the year donations and the list goes on. Not to sound too cynical, many did indeed celebrate the birthday of Jesus and took pause to appreciate our greatest Gift ever. For many, those beautiful, painstakingly hung decorations came down by December 27, and thoughts of celebrating New Year’s were at the forefront. The advertisements are now focusing on improvement for 2026: weight loss, resolutions of all sorts, and crowded gyms. Believe me, I certainly put up decorations – this year, however, I did put up the nativity scene before any trees. The Advent messages did fall on an open, albeit imperfect, heart, and attending a spectacular Nativity set a good stage. My daughter started a tradition a few years ago, and our dessert on Christmas day is now a birthday cake, and we sing happy birthday to Jesus. I’m trying to be sure the Reason for the Season is not just a trite saying.
Thankfully, at church, I heard a call to reflect on just what this birthday and Gift means to us, to the world – to me as an individual. What is my relationship with Jesus? How is my life impacted? How will I know Jesus – not know about Jesus, rather KNOW Jesus?? It was with that mindset that I read the gospel and the last impelling line. How will that work for me? Unfortunately, or fortunately, God gave me quite the opportunity. Right after Christmas, my sister fell (while taking down Christmas decorations!) – and I jumped on a plane to be with her, my nephew, and his family. So, with my apology for writing this so late, I share my very real opportunity to put others ahead of me. I have the opportunity to reflect on how Jesus can increase. How can my presence here be evidence of that – as I sit with her in the hospital how do I become the hands and feet of Jesus? Many reading this do that every day as they care for loved ones or in occupations that allow that interaction with others. I have been blessed as a nurse to have a career in serving others. As I age, I realize that these opportunities are not only a blessing for me directly, but the chance to show others Jesus and the wondrous Gift that He is. I remember one of the early songs post-Vatican II – “They will know we are Christians by our Love” – perhaps that is part of the Gift for me this year – decreasing!!! Decreasing ego and self-importance with a focus on the care of others. Sharing the gifts that have been bestowed on me to lessen the burden on others. More of Jesus, less of me.
This Zach Williams song captures this so beautifully, Less like 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.
