“Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
It is so easy to live life thinking we’re better than others. Maybe it’s not a conscious thought, or an intended action, but when we really think about it, we are proud of who we are and what we’ve done. I admit, I have, too.
But then Ash Wednesday comes, and I am reminded that we are each dust. We have done nothing in and of ourselves.
And we wear ashes on our forehead for all to see. “I am nothing,” we silently proclaim.
In this time of reality-check, when we realize our true identity before our Creator, we can truly look at ourselves, and find areas which are not up to par. Find areas where we can be honest with ourselves and with God. Find areas where we can be more Christlike.
If I’m putting on a mask to please others, I don’t let my real self show. But if I strip off the mask before Almighty God – and put ashes on my forehead in the sign of the cross, it’s the opposite of vanity. It shows humility.
Lord, give me a humble spirit. Help me to remember my place before you and before others.
I’ve become selfish; help me become selfless.
As I journey toward the cross this Lenten season, help me to remember the sacrifice you made there, Lord Jesus. Help me to live as a follower of you.
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