Today is Ash Wednesday. It is the first day of Lent. It is recognized by many Christians as a day of repentance and grief. And the season of Lent is a time to reflect on Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness. He fasted and prayed during those days and nights. As Christians, we often do the same.

As I was thinking about this day approaching, my mind kept focusing on the word Ash. Ash is “the result of something ruined. It is the residue of something destroyed.” (dictionary.com). Then my thoughts turned to all the people who lost their homes and businesses in the recent California wildfires. More than 10,000 buildings were destroyed. The remains of over 10,000 structures resulted in ash.

It was hard for me to imagine the feelings of loss, hopelessness and fear these people must have felt. To lose all their belongings, their cherished keepsakes, family heirlooms, photographs and so much more would seem devastating. And yet, each story I read talked about how blessed the victims felt knowing their families were safe. They shared their gratitude for the firefighters and first responders. They expressed love for their neighbors and community. They spoke of starting over and rebuilding. They spoke with hope in their hearts. 

This caused me to realize I can do that too. While Lent is a time for repentance and prayer, I can use this time for a personal renewal, the chance to begin again. My acts of fasting and alms giving can be reaching out to my neighbors and community. I want my Lenten season to bring a closer and deeper relationship with Jesus. Then on Easter morning I will be filled with hope knowing how much He loves me by His willingness to die a horrible death and rise in 3 days to save me. To save all of us. 

My prayers are with you for a meaningful Ash Wednesday and Lenten season. And let’s all keep those affected by the recent California fires in our prayers. 

“Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes.”  Job 42:6 (NIV)

“..And he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God.”   Acts 10:4 (ESV)

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.”  Colossians 4:2 (NIV)

For years people have asked me to pray for them and their intentions. I feel honored and humbled with these requests. If you have a concern weighing heavy on your heart, please connect with me on my Prayer Request page (found in the Main Menu). I would be honored to add you to my prayers. I promise your words will be kept confidential.

If my story resonates with you I would love to hear your comments below.