Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday

A few years ago, I saw a person enter Starbucks early one morning with what looked like a mysterious mark on her forehead. It took me a moment to realize it was Ash Wednesday, and that person had just been to church to be reminded of the importance of self-reflection and discipline.

The metaphor of dust may sound unsettling, but it is the term used in Genesis where God tells the first humans, “you are dust, and to dust you shall return” (Genesis 3:19). Lent serves as a reminder of our fragility and the significance of being spiritually attuned to how we navigate our earthly journey.

The Psalmist, perhaps reflecting on the ephemeral, dust-like nature of humanity, wrote, “Teach us to number our days that we may gain a wise heart” (Psalm 90:12). A person who grasps the brevity and uncertainty of life understands the importance of living skillfully and intentionally.

Originally, Lent was intended to be a time of reflection and preparation, a sentiment that resonates even more in today’s fast-paced, chaotic world. Over time, Lent also became a period of preparation for baptism and Easter. However, the essence of reflection and self-preparation remains at the heart of Lent’s meaning.

In these thirty-nine remaining days of Lent, we will explore the lives of individuals who faced crossroads requiring similar preparation. This will be the theme of this year’s Lenten meditations.

We hope you will find inspiration to contemplate your life and reflect on your commitment to Christ.

Prayer: Lord of the cross and resurrection, at the start of Lent, we pray that You remind us of the cost You paid at the Cross for us. May we aspire to live in a way that honors You and makes our lives worthy of the love and grace You have shown us. May we be refreshed and recommitted during this time of Lent. We pray this in Your name. Amen.