Today God calls us to contrition for our sins so that He can put eternity into our hands
Reflections on the readings for Ash Wednesday (March 6, 2019): JL 2:12-18; PS 51:3-4,5-6,12-13,14,17; 2COR 5:20 – 6:2; MT 6:1-6,16-18
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
Ash Wednesday is a vital, once-a-year opportunity to stop in our tracks and recognize that we really are mortal and that we are actually going to die someday.
This need not fill us with fear and dread. On the contrary, we should feel the opposite because we are able to see that the crucified and risen Christ we meet at the end of Lent has already redeemed us for Himself. Our souls will live and will be reunited with our bodies for eternity. We have only to trust in our Lord and sincerely repent. Then He will free us from sin and claim us as His own. “Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness; in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense. Thoroughly wash me from my guilt and of my sin cleanse me. For I acknowledge my offense, and my sin is before me always” (Psalm 51:3-5). The self-centeredness that entices us to let the world, the flesh and the devil control us is overcome by the sacrifice of the Son of God.
When we put ourselves in His hands, whatever the day-to-day difficulties we face, whatever challenges we meet, we are never alone. We never have to pretend to rely on our own plans and power when God’s plans and power are utterly and always good, just and merciful. We need only have the faith and hope to live in His love …starting today.
Suggested missionary action: During this Lenten Season, we can resolve to make an examination of conscience each evening. It will help us see our faults and open ourselves to God’s merciful guidance.
