Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, a “marker” of the beginning of a journey of self-reflection and discernment, originating in the 11th century church. The journey of repentance is about “turning around” (the origin of the word) so that we might be in right relationship with God. In a sense, we are looking for love once again. The scriptures invite us to spiritual practices of discernment such as praying and fasting, but not for the sake of “looking good” (for our sake). Rather, we are to do our work for the sake of the world–to loose the bonds of injustice… to let the oppressed go free. When we look to God for love (not simply for the approval of others), and start with our own “turning,” we participate in the “turning around.”
The particular symbolism of ashes for this day comes from a practice in the Roman Catholic churches in which the ashes from the palms used in the preceding year’s Palm Sunday celebration are blessed. With these ashes, the priest on the first day of Lent marks a cross on the forehead of each worshiper. This practice has become a part of Ash Wednesday services in many United Methodist churches.
To see all Lent/Easter activities at AUMC, click HERE.