By Pastor Don Schatz

Ash Wednesday

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
Genesis 3:19 New Revised Standard Version

Ash Wednesday originated very early in the history of the infant Christian Church.  The use of ashes joined the observance in the 8th century.  The day marks the beginning of Lent, a season of reflection and spiritual introspection leading to Easter.  Ashes symbolize repentance and mortality for Christians.  In receiving the ashes in the sign of the cross we acknowledge our sinfulness and need for Christ our Savior.  In receiving the words ‘you are dust and to dust you shall return,’  we are confronted with our mortality.  What do you confess today?  What does the heart say to you in today’s picture? Wear the ashen cross with humility.