As we begin Lent, in this week’s edition of our weekly newsletter, Scott writes about Ash Wednesday, noting that this reminder of our mortality may “at first seem grim,” but also reminds us we should savor our gift of life.
Dear friends in Christ,
I hope every Christian will find their way to a church today. Today, we receive a great gift. We are reminded of our mortality, which at first might seem grim. But in this invitation is also a reminder that our time in this earthly pilgrimage is precious, and we should savor our time and use it wisely. We have only a little time to know God’s love and to share that love with our neighbors.
After we receive the somber mark of ashes, the congregation kneels as Psalm 51 is sung or said. Near the end, we find these words.
Create in me a clean heart, O God, *
and renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from your presence *
and take not your holy Spirit from me.
Give me the joy of your saving help again *
and sustain me with your bountiful Spirit.
I love these prayerful words, because they remind me that my renewal comes not through my own doing but through God’s doing. Praying this way teaches me that my task is to open my heart and my life to God’s presence. Praying these words reminds me that the Holy Spirit will lead me, and guide me, if I am listening and willing.
Let us this day commit to savoring the gift of life our Father has given us. Let us commit to following Jesus, even and especially when the path is rocky or uncertain. Let us commit to renewing our hears by the presence of the Holy Spirit.
How will you renew and recommit this Lenten season?
Yours faithfully,
Scott Gunn
Executive Director
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