Ash Wednesday

Today is Ash Wednesday, which signifies the beginning of the Lenten Season. Today is the day that we, as Christians, begin to travel with Christ on His way to the cross. In the bible, ashes were a symbol of mourning. Esther 4:1 (RSV) says, "When Mordecai learned all that had been done, Mordecai rent his clothes and put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, wailing with a loud and bitter cry." While we are thankful that Jesus died for us, we are also sad that because of our sins, He had to. The Season of Lent lasts forty days (count the number of days between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday, excluding Sundays). Many people make a sacrifice, or "give up something" for lent. This is done to symbolize the awesome sacrifice that God have through His Son, and that the Son gave through His life. One should not give up certain foods for Lent because they want to lose weight. Whatever you give up, it should be done from the perspective of sharing in the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus our Savior. During this season, we should reflect on our spiritual walk with God, and vow to live an even better life for God's glory. May God bless you during this special time of the year.