Ashes. Ashes and dust. A reminder.
For you were made from dust, and to dust you will return.”
Genesis 3:19b NLT
Ashes and dust. Messy.
Symbolizing the messy emotions of grief and repentance.
I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance.”
Job 42:6b NLT
Ashes and dust. Things of great weakness.
Yet His little dust and bone people are precious to the Creator.
The Lord is like a father to his children,
tender and compassionate to those who fear him.
For he knows how weak we are;
he remembers we are only dust.
Psalm 103:13-14 NLT
Ashes and dust. feather-light and impermanent.
Affected by the slightest breath … or distraction.
“Distraction: Just another meaningless message to keep you from paying attention
to all of the issues that really matter.”
***
“Every great waste of time begins with a small distraction.”
***
“If the enemy can distract you from your time alone with God,
then he can isolate you from the help that comes from God alone.”
***
Heavenly Father,
In this sacred season of Lent, I lay down my distractions and lift my eyes to You.
Teach me to seek Your kingdom above all else,
to love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength.
When my priorities drift, gently guide me back to Your will.
Help me to trust that in putting You first,
everything else will fall into place according to Your perfect plan.
May my fasting, prayers, and acts of love draw me closer to You,
so that my life reflects Your light in all I do.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
[author unknown]