March 6, 2019 ASH WEDNESDAY-C

Joel 2:12-18

Psalm 51

2 Corinthians 5:20—6:2

Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

A clean heart create for me, O God, and a steadfast spirit renew in me.  Ps. 51:10

Behold, now is an a very acceptable time… 2 Cor. 6:2

Lord, I thank you for your great gift of time.  The rhythm of the seasons of the year brings our attention to your many gifts.  The forty days of the season of Lent is an opportunity each year to renew ourselves in spirit.  Today, those who will receive the cross of ashes on their foreheads are marked as sinners.  The ashes tell us that this is the acceptable time to look to you for a reboot of our lives of faith.  I am a sinner, Lord, and I beg your forgiveness for every sin I have ever committed.  This Lent I want to be different and better than any past Lent.  Show me an obstacle I have that blocks your grace from renewing my spirit.  What habit or practice can I fast from that will truly bring me closer to you?  Help me to give away what someone else needs for living.  And listen to the prayers of my heart which only you can hear.  May these 40 days be used to return to you with my whole heart.  I will die to self and live for you as I take up my cross and follow you to victory.  Amen.