Ash Wednesday - March 5, 2025

 Joel 2:12-18     2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2     Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18


There have been many times in my life where I have felt that a “Return to God” has been necessary and important to my spiritual well-being. This internal calling, has come during times of complacency, sin, happiness, and sorrow.

As I contemplated today’s readings, I felt a familiar push towards God and I need to emphasize and strengthen my faith. “Return to me with your whole heart, with fasting, and weeping, and mourning; Rend your hearts, not your garments, and return to the Lord, your God.” 

This passage also serves as a powerful reminder that returning to God requires action. It is not enough to simply feel regret; we must take intentional steps toward renewal. Fasting, weeping, and mourning, as mentioned in Joel, symbolize a heart that is open to change. In my own life, I have found that moments of true reconciliation with God often come when I take the time to pray and make changes in my life.

Moreover, the promise of God’s response to our repentance, fills me with hope. Joel emphasizes that the Lord is “gracious and merciful, slow to anger, rich in kindness, and relenting and punishment.” The fact that God will reward honest and true repentance gives me hope and strength. There is a path forward with Him as my guide. For he is merciful.

In what ways do I hope to return to God this lent? Make a plan.


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