Ash Wednesday

Today is Ash Wednesday.

Christians around the world have been observing this day for centuries. While interpretations of its significance may vary, it remains a near universal observation in the church. It is an important occasion, if properly understood.

For traditional Presbyterians, Ash Wednesday may still be a bit strange. It is a “Catholic” ritual, and therefore doesn’t have a place in a Protestant mindset. Actually, the symbolism of ashes is an ancient way of acknowledging repentance and reform. It is a deeply meaningful way of announcing yourself as a “penitent,” a person determined to follow a discipline as part of faith. I am always humbled when I take part in the ritual of ashes. It reminds me that I have a long way to go as a follower of Jesus Christ.

Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent, the symbolic forty days leading to Easter. The Scriptural context is Jesus’ forty days in the wilderness where he was tempted by Satan. The wilderness experience was a test for Jesus, both of his character and of his sense of who he was. If we understand it like this, we can turn the season of Lent into a similar time of refinement for ourselves. It is well worth doing.

During Lent my weekly communication with you will center on some aspect of personal renewal. Lent is not about giving up something, or about punishing yourself. It is about becoming more like Christ himself. There are many different ways to pursue Christ-likeness. I welcome your input as you seek your own Lenten discipline.