[amc] a note form the pastor
- From: Garland Robertson <pastor@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- To: Austin Mennonite Church <amc@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 12:51:13 -0600
Members and Friends of Austin Mennonite Church
Today, February 25, in the Church Calendar, is Ash Wednesday. The
designation is derived from a traditional practice of being marked by
ashes with the sign of the cross as a symbol of repentance and a desire
to follow God's ordained intention for human life. The ashes come from
palms used in former Palm Sunday celebrations that have since been
burned. Traditionally the ashes are not washed off until sundown.
Ash Wednesday is a day to remind us of repentance </wiki/Repentance> as
the way into God's kingdom. Ashes were used in ancient times, according
to the Bible, to express mourning </wiki/Mourning>. Dusting oneself with
ashes was the penitent's way of expressing sorrow for sins and faults.
An ancient example of this expression is found in Job
</wiki/Book_of_Job> 42:3-6, when Job says to God: "I have heard of you
by the hearing of the ear: but now my eyes see you. Wherefore I abhor
myself, and repent in dust and ashes."
During worship this next Sunday, there will be an opportunity for
persons who so desire to be marked with the sign of the cross with ashes.
Ash Wednesday also begins the period of Lent, 40 days before Easter, not
counting Sundays because they witness of the resurrection. Lent
provides a time for solemn reflection on the journey of Jesus to the
cross.
May our companionship with Jesus during this sacred time not only renew
our gratitude for his encompassing gift to us but also inspire us to
follow his example of single minded allegiance to God's way as it is
revealed to our spirits by God's divine presence within us.
May it go well with you. Sincerely,
Garland Robertson
-------
Austin Mennonite Church, (512) 926-3121 www.mennochurch.org
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