Ash Wednesday JI 2:12-18 Ps 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 12-13, 14 and 17 2 Cor 5:20-6:2 Mt 6:1-6, 16-18

Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer Praying Lent The Daily Reflections

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent.  This liturgical season is a time of preparation, repentance, and sacrifice.  As a kid, this wasn’t always the most appealing time of the year, especially since it meant I had to give up something that I really enjoyed for what seemed like an eternity.  As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found that this sacrifice really helps call me back to my faith.  I try to give up something that tempts me at least once a day, to constantly remind me of the sacrifice Jesus made.  It reminds me everyday that God is really in control of my life, and I worry unnecessarily about many things.  I also think Lent isn’t only a time for sacrifice; it is also a time for a deepening our relationship with Christ, so I try to pray a rosary every night before I go to bed.

“Rend your hearts, not your garments, and return to the Lord, your God.”  Jesus is not interested in our material things.  He wants our hearts; he wants the very core of who we are.  He came to this Earth to call the sinners back to his Father, to know his Father’s love.  Something I struggle with is always the question of 'when.'  When is it acceptable for me to turn to him; when is it time for me to answer his call?  Today’s readings make it clear that Jesus wants us to turn to him now.  He will forgive any sins committed, but he is calling us right this minute.  Not in a week, not in ten years.  Now.

“Behold, now is a very acceptable time;
behold, now is the day of salvation.” -2 Corinthians 6:2