It may seem strange that on a Christian Holy day where many disciples will walk around with a smudge of ash on their foreheads for all to see, we have a scripture passage that tells us to pray and fast privately in our “closet.” Why don’t we wear the smudge of ash in a place where only we and God can see it? Well, the smudge is a symbol of the condition of our hearts ... repentant, mortal, humble. What matters is not the words we say or the significance of what we gave up for Lent (our act of fasting).  Rather, it’s the condition of our hearts when we pray and what we hope to gain in our fasting. The acceptance or accolades of others is not what we’re after. What we need is a little more time and space for God. Listen in and you’ll see what we mean! 

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Intro and Outro music used with permission: 

“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. [email protected] 

“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services). 

All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.  

NOTE: The series that make up Faith Unfiltered explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Faith Unfiltered is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.