We seek signs in our lives to tell us whether we are doing the right thing or whether we should choose one thing over another. We ask for guidance and advice when troubling events occur. The unknown is as exciting as it is scary.
In Micah 6, God challenges us to remember the love and support that was given and have faith that if we walk with our God, we will be safe. The challenge comes along with an order to love and to do good in the world. By doing good works, God shows us that love is caring for the sick, the shunned, the downtrodden, and those who are not like us. His love is immeasurable and immense and should be welcoming to all. Belief is not seen with our eyes; it is felt and is powered by faith in the unseen. Having faith is hard in a society of wanting and material status. We are tested every day in having faith in a higher power that we’ve been told only wants good for us.
In the gospel reading, Matthew tells the story of the Pharisees questioning Jesus and demanding a sign that he is the Son of God. Jesus sees through their folly and retorts that the wicked and unfaithful are the ones who do not truly believe. It is tough to have blind faith when Christianity has been taken and made into something that does not resemble Jesus or his teachings. There are more than 100 passages in the bible that caution against believing in men who profess to be prophets. Those that spout condemnation to others have no faith in God’s message of love.
With the state of the world, I admit I am troubled and often ask for guidance in a world that seems to have forgotten that love and truth are not opposites but are in communion with one another. If love is the order from God, why do judgment and hate get a front seat to all the preachers on Sundays? God calls us to love, to forgive, to trust in faith, not by sight but by hope. I am renewed in my faith when I reflect on these teachings and readings from Christ’s path. Listen for God’s voice to speak to you and renew a heart full of caring and forgiveness. I faithfully pray for the hearts of men and women to turn to love and peace. Through these moments of reflection, may we all pray for a more Christ-like way of moving forward together.
Psalm 95 – If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.
Desiree Nownes
Dr. Desiree Nownes has spent 30 years on a Jesuit campus. Beginning her education at Regis University in Denver, she relocated to Omaha in July 2000. Over the last 25 years, she has had the privilege of serving in various roles and currently holds the position of Assistant Vice Provost for Student Life. She collaborates with a dedicated team, engaging students in meaningful conversations about their identity and aspirations. Together, they welcome students and assist them in understanding the institution’s expectations and values. Dr. Nownes is deeply passionate about her work and the individuals she collaborates with. Dr. Nownes has also had the privilege to co-teach the Creighton Colleagues Program and has experienced firsthand the camaraderie and engagement that the program fosters through the Ignatian lens.
Education
• Regis University (Denver, CO) – B.A., Criminal Justice, Sociology
• Creighton University (Omaha, NE) – M.S., Counseling, Student Affairs
• Creighton University (Omaha, NE) – Ed.D., Interdisciplinary Leadership
