Today is Ash Wednesday, the first day of the Lenten series at the Cottage. This day is the traditional beginning of Lent for Catholics and Protestants.

And I’m in no mood for ashes. I’ve been so gloomy for so many months that it is taking a toll on my soul. Events of the last fifteen months, in particular, have weighed my heart unlike any time in my life. Honestly, if you tell me that I need to lament my sins and wretchedness and remember death, I may just start crying or yell at you.

Believe it or not, the earliest Christians didn’t mark this season with ashes or by wallowing in woe. They saw the days before Easter in a different way — their emphasis was not on penance for sin but on preparation for meeting the risen Lord.

Sometimes a shift in emphasis is the difference between woe and wonder.

In this audio reflection, I unfold a vision of reframing Lent toward love, compassion, generosity toward our neighbors, and union with God. We’ll be pursuing that vision through the entire forty days ahead.

(You won’t understand the kite idea until you hear it!)

I hope you’ll find my “Ash” Wednesday mini-sermon (yes, this is what I’d preach if I were preaching tonight) a meaningful way to begin this season.

You can read instead of listening. Click “listen now” and you’ll find a transcript button below the recording.

LENT AT THE COTTAGE

Not all of the Lenten audio reflections will be this long! Most will be short (1-3 minutes), simple thoughts, prayers, quotes, and poems. If you are a paid subscriber, you’ll receive the short devotions each day on Monday through Friday during Lent.

Today’s Ash Wednesday reflection is open to the entire community — all readers whether you are here with a free or paid subscription or as a visitor or guest.

My hope is to reframe Lent with light, generosity, and love. Perhaps if we walk this different way together, we’ll find new strength and purpose at the conclusion of the forty days in the wilderness.

Please sign up or upgrade your subscription to receive the audios. We did an audio series for Advent last December and folks loved it.

If you’d like to receive the devotions and can’t afford a subscription, email us at [email protected]. We’ve never turned away anyone in need who has asked.

I’m looking for water in this dry land. I’ve had quite enough of death. I’m longing for life.

— “A Beautiful Year”

If you are reading A Beautiful Year, there are two choices for Ash Wednesday. One emphasizes practice, the other explores a spirituality of dust.

Read one or both as you like. Which speaks to you this season? What insights stand out for you?

INSPIRATION

It is my Lent to break my Lent,To eat when I would fast,To know when slender strength is spent,Take shelter from the blastWhen I would run with wind and rain,To sleep when I would watch.It is my Lent to smile at painBut not ignore its touch.

It is my Lent to listen wellWhen I would be alone,To talk when I would rather dwellIn silence, turn from noneWho call on me, to try to seeThat what is truly meantIs not my choice. If Christ’s I’d beIt’s thus I’ll keep my Lent.— Madeleine L’Engle, “For Lent, 1966”

❤️❤️❤️ In the audio reflection, I briefly mention that I’m undergoing some medical concerns that need follow-up. I hesitated in doing so, but it felt less than honest to hold back that point on this Ash Wednesday — it is at the top of my mind! I do request your prayers for clarity, peace, and good results. I’ll let you know more when I am able and if necessary — and I really have no more information than what I just shared. In the meanwhile, I ask for no unsolicited advice or intrusive comments. Your prayers, support, and kindnesses mean the world to me. Thank you!

Love, Diana

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dianabutlerbass.substack.com/subscribe