God has shown us his love by sending his only Son into the world so that we could have life through him. 1 John 4:9

Today is Ash Wednesday a Christian holy day of prayer and fasting. It’s the beginning of lent for the Roman Catholics and, I discovered some other world religions as well. Lent is the 40 days of fasting leading up to Easter, the celebration of the resurrection of Christ. 

On Ash Wednesday many Christians receive a Blessed Ash Cross on their foreheads to mark a solemn day of repentance and self-reflection. By tradition the Blessed Ash comes from the palms of Palm Sunday being burned to ash mixed with holy water and blessed by a priest.

For some people, before leaving their church, the Ash Cross is washed off to symbolize their sin has been cleansed. For others the Ash Cross is left in place so they can carry their cross into the world to symbolize their commitment to God. 

For all Christians, this is a time for rejoicing. We all believe that Jesus died on the cross to forgive us of our sins once and for all, regardless of our religious beliefs or philosophies. So, for the next 40 days, what are you prepared to give up in order to serve Jesus? Ask Jesus in prayer, "What can I give up for you?" Perhaps you might put aside some time each day to reflect on Jesus, appreciate everything that he has accomplished for you, confess your sins to him, and give him thanks for his love and sacrifice. Perhaps you're dependent on something like Netflix, Hulu, or Prime TV and could give them up for lent. How about complaining? Other options could be binge eating, anxiety, or finding reasons not to exercise. There are many choices.

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:21

If you don't feel the need to give up anything, consider creating a new habit. Some examples are kneeling while praying, complimenting someone every day, giving to a worthy organization, keeping a gratitude journal, volunteering, and writing actual letters to friends and family or someone serving oversees. Our choices are limitless!

Because of our gratitude, let’s commit to gratefully carrying our cross into the world and sharing the light and love of Jesus with everyone we encounter for the next 40 days and beyond.

Jesus, thank you for your mercy and grace and for death losing its sting as a result of your suffering on the cross. Amen.