"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." Psalm 51:10
Today is Ash Wednesday, and we begin our Lenten journey in earnest. Lent is a season of reflection, repentance, and renewal. Ash Wednesday calls us to remember our mortality, our need for God's mercy, and the invitation to turn our hearts fully toward him. The ashes we receive on our foreheads or forearms are not just a sign of our frailty, but also a symbol of God's redeeming grace.
Lent is also a time to let go of distractions and lean into God's presence. It's an opportunity to realign our hearts, making space for the work of the Spirit to transform us. Whether you are carrying burdens, regrets, or just the weight of everyday life, know that God's grace is bigger, and he will help us carry the load.
As we gather tonight, we come as we are, imperfect but beloved. We come not only to receive ashes but also to receive hope. We will gather for a time of fellowship and good food before the service at our "Breakfast for Dinner" Potluck at 5:30 PM in the Fellowship Hall. Then, we will assemble for our Ash Wednesday Service at 6:30 PM in the Sanctuary.
Come hungry. Come open-hearted. Come ready to begin this holy season with a renewed spirit.
A Prayer for Ash Wednesday:
Gracious God, as we step into this season of Lent, remind us that we are dust, and to dust we shall return. Yet in your mercy, you breathe life into us again and again. Create in us a clean heart and renew a right spirit within us. Help us to walk these forty days with humility, faith, and a deep awareness of you and your grace. In the name of Christ, we pray, Amen.
Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do too!