The readings today present a contrast between the first reading reflecting a steadfast belief and actions congruent with such a belief and gospel where the actions seem incongruent with the claims. It is clear that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego had a strong, powerful faith in God. I wonder if my faith could withstand such a challenge? We are challenged everyday to walk, not in a furnace, but rather a path that follows the teaching of Jesus. How often do I allow my feet to wonder off that path and be burned in the process? In contrast to the steadfast belief evident in the first reading, the crowds in the gospel struggle to understand the words of Jesus in explaining being set free – free from the slavery of sin. They are focused on a fragile earthly freedom. How often do I remain focused on earthly foibles and “forget” the bigger picture?
Both readings presented challenges to me as I ponder my actions – are they always congruent with what I claim to believe and who I claim to be? I’d love to answer an unequivocal yes – but that would not always be the case – hopefully I’m moving to more yeses than nos. Perhaps, the best part of having a loving God in my life is the fact that even with such feet of clay; I do always know I’m loved. I know that sometimes I’m slower to forgive my self than the forgiveness and grace I have from my Father. Yet, I’m always willing to sing “Glory and praise for ever” as I bathe in the abundant blessings in my life.
As you know (since I frequently include a verse or two), I love Christian music. It has been my very conscious choice to keep my car radio turned to a Christian station. As my companion on the ride to work and home, I’m filled with wonderful music and lyrics that I not only understand, but can also embrace. The positive, uplifting music fills my car and my soul. Frequently throughout the day, certain tunes play in my head and I gratefully hum them. I believe this gives me a much more positive attitude as I reach work and home. I feel fortified for the day with my morning drive concert and better able to put the day in proper perspective with the drive home concert. One recent discovery for me is a new arrangement of Amazing Grace. While any version of Amazing Grace will easily fill my soul with gratitude and my eyes with tears, this particular one goes back to some of John Newton’s original words for the final verse and adds in a refrain throughout the song that fits well with the message in today’s gospel. I offer this in closing as we prepare for Easter in these last weeks of Lent. My hope is that you have a similar reaction to mine – each time I hear this I want to throw my arms up high and praise the Lord in humble thanksgiving.
My chains are gone,
I’ve been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy reigns
Unending love, amazing grace.
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.
