1st Day of Lent

Psalm: 95

Observation

Why ashes? In the Old Law ashes were generally a symbolic expression of great mourning or repentance. When Jesus was accused of blasphemy by the high priest, Caiaphas tore his robes and poured ashes on his head. As the liturgy states: “Remember man, that thou art dust and unto dust thou shalt return.”

This is the season of the Church year to give pause and take stock of our lives before God.

Gospel: Luke 18:9-14

New Testament: Hebrews 12:1-14

Old Testament: Jonah 3:1 – 4:11