One of the most difficult tasks I perform, as a pastor, is the imposition of ashes on Ash Wednesday.
On the one hand, it is a glorious experience - to be actively involved in the liturgies of the Church. Liturgies which move us through the harsh realities of life and connect us to the eternal goodness of our God.
Difficult, in that this liturgical rite involves reminding those who come forward, "Remember you are ashes and to ashes you shall return."
Some of those attended last night's service have had busy schedules. As a result, we hadn't talked for a while. Not sure what has been going on in their lives, I looked into smiling eyes which seemed to be saying, "Hey Pastor Chris. It is good to see you." Then I rubbed ashes on their face.
The life-story of some of those attending last night's service is well known to me. I know of their pains and heart-breaks. My desire is to offer them a word of hope, a word of encouragement. What I gave to them was a charcoal stain.
I keep reminding myself that the imposition of ashes is a reminder that we are dust, offered by a community whose faith assures us that dust is not all that there is. That our hopes will be realized and our smiles transformed to true joy. But it is tough. I guess this is part of my Lenten pilgrimage.
As we move through these days of Lent, may we all remember and be reminded that in Christ we find that hope is not possible to find on our own. In him, our souls find their rest.
Pastor Chris
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