Ash Wednesday

“Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent:  Create and make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily lamenting our sins and acknowledge our wretchedness may obtain of you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever.  Amen.”  The Book of Common Prayer 

Thus begins the liturgical Ash Wednesday Service.  A service designed to remind us that we are sinners and are in need of repentance.  It reminds us that we are made from the dust of the ground and that one day we will return to that dust.  Ash Wednesday puts our lives in perspective with the universe.  But, it also gives us hope that God, who is all-powerful, will forgive us if we truly repent.

Ash Wednesday also marks the beginning of Lent, a season of repentance and fasting.  It is a period of time for Christians to pause and take stock of their lives before the tragedy of Holy Week and the triumphant celebration of Easter.  Lent is 40 days, modeled after Jesus’ 40 days of fasting in the wilderness in preparation of His earthly ministry.

Wednesday February 25, 2009 is the first day of Lent.  I would encourage you to find and attend an Ash Wednesday service.  Let the ash that is placed on your forehead serve as a reminder of the dust that we are made of.  Allow God to speak to you and direct your fast, so that it will challenge and change your life.