Ash Wednesday

 

(This is me taking a picture of myself when I got home from church....not the best, but I was really just trying to get the ashes on my forehead in the picture.)

Today is Ash Wednesday.  I have always loved the Ash Wednesday Service at church.  I have to admit I have really missed my preschoolers on Wednesday nights.  Last week WOW was canceled because of the weather, and tonight everyone went to big church for the Ash Wednesday Service.  It was so sweet to see the little girls get the ashes drawn in a cross on their forehead.  They were so proud!  (6 of the girls were there tonight, and the most I've ever had is 7!)  I talked to them after the service, and one of them asked me,"Mrs. Rae, why weren't you here tonight?"  I told her I was there, that I was in big church just like her.  She then responded, "Do we have to go to big church next week?" (with a frown on her face)  I told her no, that we would have class next week and I got a YAY from them all.  They are so funny!

Ash Wednesday, also is the first day that I chose to give up something or make a sacrifice.  I was reminded of the passage from Matthew 6:16-18

When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 17But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fast...ing, but only to your Father... who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

So, I was reminded that my sacrifice is between me and God, not me and everyone else.  It basically reminds me that I am not supposed to brag about what I am giving up.  I have shared with a few people and all I can say is it is not going to be easy......which, I know, is the idea......but Whew!

 

Happy Beginning of Lent!

Rae