Today is Ash Wednesday, which heralds the beginning of the Lenten season. Growing up, I remember going to church on Ash Wednesday in the mornings and watching my parents go to work with a smudge of Ash on their foreheads. I would proudly carry the Ash on my forehead and tell my friends it was something Christians did. I had no idea what the Ash represented, and all I knew about Lent was that it was a season when adults around me gave up something (eating meat, sugar, fasting every day). I had a vague idea that we celebrated Easter somewhere at the end of Lent.
Love reading your reflection. I especially resonate with this: “Lent reminds me to slow down. The laying of ashes on the forehead is not some spiritual mark of pride but an awareness that we cannot escape death despite our productivity. The Ash reminds me to breathe. Breathe in the renewal that He will bring.” ♥️
Musings on Ash Wednesday and Lent
I love your honesty, Sherene!😊 I’m thankful my Lenten practices have evolved into something more meaningful over the years as well.
Love reading your reflection. I especially resonate with this: “Lent reminds me to slow down. The laying of ashes on the forehead is not some spiritual mark of pride but an awareness that we cannot escape death despite our productivity. The Ash reminds me to breathe. Breathe in the renewal that He will bring.” ♥️