…for me the ashes are a symbol of death and new life. AS we let go of those things that are destructive, as they die, from the ashes there can arise amazing things as we embrace the dream of Jesus. Lent is that time of re-evaluation and letting go. It is a time to allow things to die so that new life can blossom.
~ Valerie Peyton Kingsbury
Today marks the beginning of our Lenten journey. Traditionally, throughout the day, Christians around the globe make their way to sacred places to receive the ashes. It marks the 40 day journey that will culminate with the death and resurrection of Jesus – the defining moment of our faith story.
Not the Norm and Not Comfortable
This year things may be slightly different. Not all people, because of COVID regulations, will be able to go somewhere to physically receive the ashes. But communities have turned to creative ways to ensure that we are somehow able to mark this day. Some have made cards with sacred words, with the cross drawn on in ashes, and these will be given to people. Others will be online and people will be invited to enter into the sacredness of the moment, receiving the blessing. For those who are able to make it physically to a church, the ashes may be administered by other means so that people can maintain a safe distance. Whatever it is, it will not be the norm and it will not be comfortable for us.
As I sit here and think about that I can’t help but think that this is good. What we enter into is not about comfort, it is meant to be a time that takes us into discomfort as we struggle with the meaning of this story for us.
Shake Things Up and Let Things Go
Jesus’ story is one of daring for him and discomfort for those who saw and heard his radical message of love. The same old, same old, status quo was shaken up and Jesus declared a new way of being. For us, who follow him, this means that we must embrace the path he walked and be as daring as he was.
We too must shake things up in order to create a better world for all people. These 40 days in the wilderness should then be a time for us to reflect on our journey – the things we are called to do and the people we are called to be. We must take time to ground ourselves; to seek guidance and strength for the journey; to listen carefully to the leadings of Spirit; and then, renewed and redirected, emerge empowered to live the gospel.
As a person who grew up in a tradition where the ashes were not a thing, I have always struggled with what their purpose and meaning is. However in these later years,
for me the ashes are a symbol of death and new life. AS we let go of those things that are destructive, as they die, from the ashes there can arise amazing things as we embrace the dream of Jesus. Lent is that time of re-evaluation and letting go. It is a time to allow things to die so that new life can blossom.
May it be so.
Blessings
Valerie
copyright 2021 Rev. Valerie Peyton Kingsbury