A Time to Connect with God

Ash Wednesday begins our Lenten journey.  We begin Lent with a reminder that we are dust and we will return to dust. The ashes used during the Ash Wednesday worship service are made from the burnt palms that were used during the Palm Sunday worship service.  The confirmation class, with my guidance, burned the dried palms and sifted them into fine ashes. 

I like using the dried-up palms from the previous years to make the ashes for Ash Wednesday.  Not only does it give a new purpose to the dried palms, it connects us to the joy we often feel as we wave the palms during the Palm Sunday procession. There is beauty in those ashes.     

Bishop Dean K. Johnson writes, “Remember you are dust, the substance of the stars, animated with the Breath of Life.  Uniquely formed in the image and likeness of Divine Love.  Authored in hope, forged in joy, very good of very good, no accident we, this beloved quickened dust, knit to love and be loved. Remember you are dust. Amen.” 

Ash Wednesday is more than a reminder of our mortality, it is a reminder that we are loved.  We are formed in the image of Divine Love.  Lent is a time for reflection and renewal.  It’s a time for spiritual growth and a time to bring us closer to God.       

During Lent, I encourage you to find time to connect with God, scripture, and one another.  Reflect on how God is at work in you.  Don’t forget that you are formed in the image and likeness of God.  We are all beloved children of God. 

Yours in Christ, 

Pastor Katrina Steingraeber