Ash Wednesday

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely,^] and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us,  looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake o^] the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.                                                                                                                                                     (Hebrews 12:1-2, NRSV)

It is Ash Wednesday and I want to encourage each of you in your prayer walk through Lent this year.  This text, my grandmother’s favorite, provides a wonderful roadmap for Lent.  Oma would often remind us to “keep your eyes on Jesus.”  We do that by “laying aside every weight and sin that clings so closely.”  Take time to confess your sins and receive the forgiveness Jesus so generously offers.  Let go of anxiety and the burdens of life and let Jesus carry them for you.  Take comfort in the words, “who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross.”  These words remind us that Jesus looked through the cross that awaited Him and He saw me and each one of you, and that brought Him great joy.  Finally, because He is “seated at the right hand of the throne of God,” we can be assured of His promise to “be wth us always and everywhere.” 

We come to You, O God, though we are but dust and ashes.  We come to You for  forgiveness, strength, and new life.  Breathe into us your life-giving Spirit that we might live with our eyes focused on You in Your joy and peace.  Amen.