Let the LORD lead you and trust the LORD to help. (CEV)
Psalm 37:3–7 (CEV)
Today, known as Ash Wednesday, begins the forty day (forty-six including Sundays) journey to the crucifixion. For the next forty days we will attempt to prepare our hearts and minds for the reality that faced our Lord and Savior two thousand years ago. For many of us the next 40 days can be painful, challenging, and at times overwhelming. And that’s ok because the next 40 days can also be life changing. The season of Lent allows us time to evaluate who we are, who God is, and who God is calling us to be in light of that relationship. Lent is an invitation to turn away from our sins, weaknesses, strengths, shortcomings towards God’s grace.
The psalm quoted above is an incredible reminder that the journey we are about to embark on has to be led by our Lord and Savior. When we trust the Lord to help, when we trust the Lord to lead us, then true repentance and true transformation can begin. Only God knows where we are heading in the next forty days. Trust in His love, His grace, and His direction. As ashes are imposed on your foreheads tonight as a sign of repentance, remember that we aren’t on this journey alone. Buckle up friends; we’re in for an incredible journey towards the cross.
Amanda Knouse+
