Ash Wednesday, March 2, 2022
“L*** is here, but don’t say it out loud.”
Argh! It’s time for that four-letter word that we dare not say aloud. Yet every year, (L***) sneaks back into the calendar, catching us flat-footed and unaware. Lots of us choose to ignore it (especially since most people don’t pay attention to it, anyway). Yes, (*e**) ain’t something that we eagerly anticipate, like Christmas, birthdays, and other special days. In fact, it would seem like the only reason to be excited about (**n*) is that Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday arrive beforehand. But, since most of us already missed out on yesterday’s fun, let’s go ahead and get this (***t) started!
Today is Ash Wednesday. It marks the beginning of the season we are refusing to mention by name. Many churches will be administering ashes for people, either on the forehead or the back of the hand. Ashes are used by the Church because it reminds us that we were created from dust, and eventually, we’ll return back to dust. I recognize it’s kind of unpleasant to consider this fact, which is one more reason we don’t become overly excited about this Season.
However, this is really a great opportunity to consider spot-cleaning a few places in our soiled laundry. Yes, that’s unpleasant to consider as well, but once treated, and kept clean, it sure does look good. In fact, it feels even better, which is a great reason to consider making a sacrifice or two this time of year.
Today is the beginning (L*NT). Are you up for a challenge? Consider getting ashed today at a local church. If you are unable to attend a church, or if your local churches are pandemic-cautious, then create your own way to become marked – Carry a small cross in your pocket or purse or use a felt marker to draw a cross or other Christian symbol on the back of your hand. Or, consider doing something else today that will remind you that God created you special, unique, and highly favored. LENT is here!
“The angel said to her, ‘Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.’ “ (Luke 1:28, NRSV).