Ash Wednesday...Are you ready to journey through the desert?

For a large number of Christians, Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent. Biblically, Lent is the 40 days and nights that Jesus spent alone in the desert and was tempted three time by Satan. His return to Jerusalem is marked as Palm Sunday. Historically, it is the time when new converts used the time to prepare for Holy Baptism.

For me, Ash Wednesday gives a bit of connection... From dust we came and to dust we will return. As a Christian, this is the begining of some time of introspection, accounting and penitence. One realizes, in my belief, that if we follow the road that Jesus took it will lead to eternal life. Jesus was made mortal and died mortal. He turned death into ashes....

To make ashes you need fire. I believe the fire of God's love, generosity, hope, forgiveness, humility burns bright and hot during this time; and it is a time to recognize it and prepare for the gift of Easter and the resurrection.

The Lenten season gives us the time to restore fellowship, repent, reconcile, receive absolution and become whole again. This is traditionally done by meditation, self examination, prayer, fasting, self-denial, (and I add) service to others.

During this time of Lent, the Psalm that is traditionally used is Psalm 51. I'll post it later during Lent. Have a blessed Lent.