Ash Wednesday (Feb. 17)

Narrated by Dave Millen

Ashes to Ashes

You are dust, and to dust you shall return. Genesis 3:19

An ancient Christian ritual imposes ashes on our foreheads with these words, reminding us forcefully that we all are born to die. Without exception, the wounds of sin are terminal. Except, the gospel of the cross proclaims a new future for us. Jesus was wounded for our transgressions, and by his wounds, we are healed. Our sinfulness offends our holy God and deserves the judgment of death. Jesus died to offer healing grace to all who believe in him. Let this be our goal for Lent: to receive again the healing power of the cross and to live as healthy children of God.

REFLECT: How have sin's toxic wounds distorted and disrupted my life?
How can the wounds of Christ bring healing to my soul?

PRAY: Lord Jesus, apply the healing power of your wounds to my inmost nature. Amen.

Devotional content provided by Creative Communications for the Parish.