By Today is Ash Wednesday and the start of the Lenten season. I went to church at lunch for communion and the imposition of ashes (where ashes are placed on your forehead in the sign of a cross).
There wasn’t an official service. I would call it a ‘drive-by’ or ‘drive-thru’ service. I arrived in the chapel and took a seat in a pew to prepare myself. Music was playing softly in the background as I began to pray. I asked God to help me listen to Him more. I know I’m nowhere near perfect, but I strive to be a better Christian. Some days are better than others for sure. As I prayed, I found tears streaming down my face. The emotions caught me off guard. I wasn’t feeling particularly sad today so why all the tears all of a sudden?
For me part of the Lenten season is soul-searching. Am I a ‘good’ Christian? Do I listen for God’s words and do I follow His advice? I don’t think of myself as a bad person but I know I can be a better person. A kinder, more caring and gentler Mary.
Many people give up meat, alcohol or sweets for Lent. I’ve done that in the past. I’m not sure if I’ll give anything up this year. Maybe I’ll give up my guilty pleasure of reading the UK Daily Mail? Or I could challenge myself and give up Hulu? I’m off social media, except for LinkedIn. I need that for work, but maybe for emails and LinkedIn I put boundaries up and limit how often I check for activity?
I’d rather focus on improving and making positive changes rather than abstaining. They both serve a purpose.
I am grateful for Ash Wednesday and for the opportunity reflect on my relationships with God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.
For you were made from dust, and to dust you shall return.
Genesis 3:19
