Today is Ash Wednesday. For some this is a familiar spiritual practice. For others the question marks remain – why? Totally to be expected. Not all churches have observed this day of repentance and the imposition of ashes.
In my childhood and youth, the only symbols of this spiritual practice were those seen on the foreheads of my friends who were Roman Catholics. We Methodists observed Lent, but we did not pay much attention to Ash Wednesday. As time has gone on, people of many traditions have discovered the solemnity of this day as important in their Lenten journey.
In the religious history of our country, we did have Days of Prayer and Thanksgiving. It wasn’t the same, but it was within the tradition of prayer, confession, repentance, and new beginnings.
The words “ashes to ashes, dust to dust” come from the Book of Common Prayer Service for One Who Has Died. That particular phrase is not found in the Bible. The closest is found in the book of Genesis where God tells Adam – “For dust you are, and to dust you shall return.” (Genesis 3:19)
The Ash Wednesday Service that will be held in the sanctuary this evening at 7:00 is a short meditative service. Those who wish may come forward for the Imposition of Ashes (the sign of the cross from ashes placed on the forehead). It is a tangible reminder that the journey of Lent leads to the cross where we see face to face Jesus’ love for us.
See you there.
Rev. Clara
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