Ash Wednesday: Repent & Believe!
While it's not a holy day proper, Ash Wednesday is, interestingly, a day when Catholics all over the world feel the need to attend Mass.
There's something in us that calls us to participate in this kickoff to Lent. It's like the opening ceremony of the Olympics. With these funny ashes on our foreheads, now we can begin the Christian game anew, taking on the specific challenges of renewed prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.
Ashes are an external sign of penance. They are a reminder that we all will experience death and we don't have forever to repent, to "get right" with God. Jesus has victory over death in the end. With him by our side, what have we to fear?
As our Lenten season begins, how will this year be different?
What concrete steps will you take to allow Jesus to live in you more fully?
Who will you trust to walk alongside you as companions and friends?
After watching this message from Bishop Barron on how to "get the most out of" Lent this year, pondering these questions:
- What challenges do I foresee this Lent?
- How can I create a new routine of prayer this week?
- When I fast, who can I offer up my discomfort for? Who can I pray for?
“God never tires of forgiving us; we are the ones who tire of seeking his mercy."