The readings during Easter season always challenge me to consider what it would be like to have lived at the time of the Apostles. As I read of the various activities of the early believers, I often wonder how I would be at that time. I’m sure I would doubt Saul (Paul) at first knowing of his persecution of early Christians. Sometimes I think that the early Christians had it easier to believe since they witnessed all these miracles and, for some, actually saw Jesus and walked with Him. Certainly, there could be no doubt that this “man” was the Son of God. Then, I do a reality check … imagine how this must have seemed – could this be what the prophets were predicting? Could this BE?
Oh, then there is the persecution, so probably not at all “easy” to be an early Christian. Imagine standing so firm in your convictions that you are willing to sacrifice everything for that. Imagine standing with your children and facing the perils of such persecution. While I am not well-read about the persecution that the Jews faced for thousands of years, my understanding as I read the bible is that this willingness to stand up for what you believe is not new for “the chosen people.”
For me, as I reflect upon all of this, the question that still arises is how would I have handled all of it – would I believe? Would I die for my belief? Would I share that belief with others even if it meant I would be in peril? All of this brings up yet another question: how do I handle it today? Am I willing to show my faith? Do I live my faith? There is no doubt that I believe I am a beloved child of God … do others have any inkling of that belief? Do I walk the talk?
It appears that every time I have a reflection to write (for which I am always grateful), I have more questions than answers. I am challenged to really exam who I am and how that is lived and conveyed to others. While I can not control what others think of me, I am in full control of the message(s) that I give. I usually have a cross displayed around my neck – even when not wearing a cross necklace, my wedding band has a cross on it. I am never without my symbol of my connection with Jesus. Yet, are my actions always congruent with my jewelry? If one followed me around for a day or two, would it be clear that I’m a Christian regardless of my jewelry?
I am of the vintage that I remember well the change in Church music following Vatican II. The music of the “folk masses” filled my heart. One of the earliest songs that I remember from this is They’ll know We are Christians by our Love and the lyric that we are one in the Spirit. So many of the songs in that era (many from the beloved St Louis Jesuits) proclaimed our beliefs in a way that demanded/encouraged actions consistent with our professions of faith. So, the question remains for me, will they know I am Christian???
So … two songs today (songs are my way to share my faith with you).
Vintage (yet pertinent today as ever – evidence the masks!!): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3EBShVUTH0U
And new:
Whenever I hear the song below I think of St John the Baptist and all the early disciples and how they reached out to the world and continued the story that Jesus begun .…
Nobody by Casting Crowns https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yBzIt_z8oY
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.
