Today’s first two readings reminded me that war and fear have been a part of human experience for a very long time. Sometimes when I think about the ills of the current world, I forget that these are not new. Natural disasters and cruel human acts have always been with us, as has the faith of people to face these tragedies and, at times, even grow. I am touched by the sorrow that David felt and the impact of the losses beyond just the immediate family/circle of friends. Another reminder of how interconnected we all are to one another. Our actions, or lack thereof, have ripple effects well beyond our viewing area. We are not isolated beings in this fragile world but a complex connected web where vibrations anywhere are felt in some way everywhere.
The psalm reflects a people reaching out almost in desperation for some favor or comfort from their God. In many ways, this feels different to me from the majority of psalms that seem to focus on praise. While I may have had similar prayers at times, I believe the foundation for me is the faith that whatever happens I am not alone. I did not sense as much confidence in this plea especially the last part. That sense of knowing that no matter what, God is there in all ways manifested and that the outcome will truly be okay is a tremendous gift. That does not mean the outcome will always be what fits my plans but I know that whatever, I need to not worry and hand it over and believe. Having the grace and faith to keep accepting is one of the most important parts of my prayers. The gentle bonk on the head that I’m not in charge!!
I will admit to being someone baffled by the gospel. Jesus’s relatives think he is out of his mind?! Of course, this would not include Mary and Joseph. Still, it was unnerving to think about those closest to Jesus, thinking he was not sane. Then I did imagine how some of his actions and ways would have seemed so strange to those around him. Without the grace of the Holy Spirit to open our hearts and minds, we, too, might consider this over the edge. Ah… faith does not mean we believe what we see and feel around us. It goes beyond what might make sense and allows our hearts and minds to accept and believe without seeing. There is a great line in the song, My Savior, My God, it bridges that gap between knowing in the traditional sense and KNOWING God:
That He would leave His place on high
And come for sinful man to die
You count it strange, so once did I
Before I knew my Savior
It is by the grace of God, that we KNOW Him and accept Him into our hearts. I pray that grace continues for all of us…
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.
