Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Ash Wednesday

Dear friends in Christ, let us ask our Father to bless these ashes which we will use as the mark of our repentance.

In Joel 2:12-18, the prophet points to the fact that "works" of penance, if not related to that inner conversion to God in love, are worthless. "Rend your hearts, not your garments, and return to the Lord, your God." Whatever has happened in the past, God is merciful and willing to forgive; "A clean heart create for me, O God, and a steadfast spirit renew within me."

In 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2 the Apostle Paul insists on conversion now! "God made him (Jesus) who did not know sin to be sin", meaning Jesus became the Lamb of God who took away our sins. Forgiveness is available, ask for it now!

In the Gospel of Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 Matthew reinforces Joel's message. External works of penance have no value in themselves; you must relate them to the real penance, your conversion to God. The danger of hypocrisy is always present during this season and throughout the year, so what you give up for Lent is between you and the Lord. It is enough that your heavenly Father sees it and you relate it to a constant conversion to love.

Lord, bless the sinner who asks for your forgiveness and bless all those who receive these ashes. May they keep this Lenten season in preparation for the joy of Easter. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

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