Daily Reflection October 24rd, 2008

Daily Reflection October 24rd, 2008

by Nancy Shirley

School of Nursing

Ephesians 4:1-6

Psalm 24:1-2, 3-4ab, 5-6

Luke 12:54-59

It is once again a beautiful fall day – full of evidence of God’s love for us! As I reflected upon these readings the last few days a number of areas came to mind. However, as I sit here now thinking about my newest granddaughter born not quite 10 hours ago, my thinking is taking some different directions. Our first reading encourages us (“urges” us) to walk the talk while the responsorial psalm reveals our desire to see the face of the Lord. Lastly, Jesus chides us to read the signs of our times and take appropriate steps.

As I consider the first reading, I think about how easy it is to say words, even words that we really mean. Yet, when it comes down to the actions that need to accompany these words, we frequently fall short. In our day-to-day activities with strangers, friends, and even family, we make promises and say many words, but do we always live those words out? When it comes to living our faith, it is even more challenging. I find I am saying the same things at reconciliation – usually related to not being “Christian” enough toward others. Certainly, my intent is not to discount anyone or be unkind. Yet, some of my actions and, more notably, my omissions give witness to my failings! Oh, to be rid of these feet of clay. The words of St. Paul are so simple and clear, “one Body and one Spirit.” For me, it is a matter of changing perspectives and the lens through which I view others. As soon as I ascribe to them their role as children of God, I am hard pressed to treat them in a way not worthy of God.

The thought of seeing others as children of God flows nicely into the responsorial psalm. We repeat over and over our desire to see the face of the Lord. We (I) forget that we “see” the Lord every day, that is, if we take the time to do so. Today, it was quite easy for me! I rushed to my son’s house about 2 am as he and his wife rushed to the hospital. I looked at my sleeping two-year granddaughter – her hair spread on her pillow, her cute little legs in strange positions (way more flexible than Nana!). Then I had the extraordinary opportunity to hold my newest grandchild. How could I not see the face of God? How could I not feel his presence? While this day was exceptional, the presence of God was not. My willingness to see and feel him may change but not His presence. In conjunction with the first reading, it is in living our faith, that He blesses us with countless ways to see the Lord. As we reach to others with open hearts and minds, we are aware of His presence.

The gospel provides us so much for reflecting about how we are “seeing” the signs around us. Of course, when we see gray clouds we understand that rain is not far behind. Yet, it seems difficult for us to see what is before us. As I think about our “present time,” I have to cringe. There are many signs for us to know that we are not following the path suggested in the first readings. One only has to look at the dress, music, entertainment, and material focus to conclude that we have veered off the path. How do we find our way back?I keep a prayer by my computer at work that helps me to stay focused (provided I read it often!). I’ll close with that prayer – I received it during Lent one year without an author.

Dear God,

Please remove from me any darkness.

Reveal to me Your light, which You share with me

and have placed within me.

May I shine forth as Your beloved child, to be a sign of

your love for the world to see.

May Your spirit cleanse my heart and mind.

May I feel forgiven.

Thank you for setting me free.