March 6 Day 1
Ecclesiastes 3:20
All go to one place. All are from the dust, and to dust all return
REFLECTION
The spiritual practice of Lent traditionally begins with the service of Ash Wednesday and a reminder that “All are from the dust, and to dust all return.” This is the starting point from which we will enter this devotional series. Faith in a God-created universe and the existence of a Spirit that is the basis of life is necessary to approach the way, the truth, and the life that Jesus offers. Our bodies are composed of created elements – but then God breathed his Spirit into us, and we are now unique creations among living things.
Ashes and dust elicit an ancient understanding of destruction, grief, and loss. It is the loss of paradise, where we existed in the life God designed for us, without sin, that underlies our broken nature. It is grief over the loss of right relationship with God and man that opens our hearts to metanoia…a heartbreak that can only be healed by our Creator. And it is metanoia, that can turn us from the wide way that leads to destruction and onto the narrow way that leads to salvation.
We repent because we are truly “poor in spirit” and are ready to commit to follow Jesus as both our Savior and Lord of our lives. Our works are ashes. Our wisdom and knowledge are dust. It is only when we take up the Cross of Jesus and follow him in our thoughts, words, and deeds, that we can know the abundant life, living hope, and eternal life that God offers through his Son. Are we ready to look up from the ashes and dust of our lives and commit to a life of discipleship in Jesus?
PRAYER: Lord, it is rare that we can hear your voice or answer your call until our dreams, our achievements, and our understanding, are reduced to ashes and dust. That is when we are reminded that you are our Creator and Sovereign ruler of all. That is when our broken hearts can turn away from our own sin and darkness and turn back to God. Help us to trust and obey You so that we can find new life in your Son and receive the blessings of your peace and hope. AMEN
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