Ash Wednesday

Today is Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent.  I grew up in a non-denominational church and we didn't observe the church calendar, but as an adult I have learned to love the tradition.  Taking a period of time to contemplate Christ's sacrifice and really focus on His beautiful redemptive plan makes Easter so much sweeter.

The fast is meant to be a physical reminder of what Christ suffered, if only in a very small way.  I'm fasting from dessert this season, and let me tell you, I love me some chocolate.  And ice cream.  So I will probably feel little pangs of withdrawal...or maybe big ones.  Forty days of no dessert is a long time!  But if each craving reminds me of my salvation then it is worth it.  (Someone remind me of that next week when all I can think about is sweets!)

Along with the fast I will be reading a selection of scriptures every day that are relevant for Lent.  My Bible app has a 46 day plan that I am following.  I have also ordered a devotional book but it has not arrived yet.  Here's the first scripture from today's reading.

“Even now,” declares the LORD,
“return to me with all your heart,
with fasting and weeping and mourning.”

Rend your heart
and not your garments.
Return to the LORD your God,
for he is gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger and abounding in love,
and he relents from sending calamity. Joel 2:12-13