Searching, Purifying

Throughout history, believers have looked for ways to think about the impact Jesus has made on their lives. They’ve taken moments to pause from their busy schedules to celebrate and remember. For many, this led to a time of reflection on what was called “Ash Wednesday,” the first day of Lent. In this year, today is that day.

Traditionally, Lent was the time each year when Christians set aside the 40 days (not including Sundays) that lead up to Easter for prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal.

Ash Wednesday got its name from the practice of putting ashes on the forehead to remind Christians of the importance of humility. To remember that we are “but dust” (Genesis 3:19).

Forty days symbolized the time Jesus spent fasting and seeking God in the wilderness. Following His example, Christians were called to dedicate time to search their hearts and lives, purify themselves from sin, and seek God in a fresh way.

Sadly, many in the world have turned this time of spiritual renewal into a celebration of carnality. We see this pattern during Mardi Gras, the time of revelry just before the beginning of Lent when the streets of places like New Orleans and Brazil become scenes of unbridled hedonism.

But how much more important it is to remember all that Jesus did for us, and reflect on His suffering and death. This is a time to be humble and grateful. To rejoice that God knows that “we are dust.” To remember that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

Today, spend time in prayer and reflection. Allow God to search your heart. Confess any sins. Realize anew how wonderful it is to be forgiven and clean in His sight!