Ash Wednesday

Nerve

I suppose I have a heck of a nerve to stand here and speak to you about Ash Wednesday and Lent.

Who am I, after all, to say anything to you about this season; you who have so much experience?

Instead

I’ll just refer you back to these readings we’ve just heard.

Joel

Turn back to God

With complete sincerity

With all your heart

Let even the bride and bridegroom leave their love nest to petition for God’s mercy.

Corinthians

God has made us his ambassadors, don’t let this grace be wasted.

Now is the favorable time,

Now is the day of salvation.

Matthew

Let God be your motivation and reward for you actions and your devotion (alms and fasting)

Not public acclaim.

Summary of Christian life:

Almsgiving, fasting and prayer.

If any of us can say we’ve reflected on these passages

and made them more fully a part of our life,

We will have spent a worthy Lent and really be ready for a full-hearted celebration of Jesus’ Passover,

Our redemption.