February 16, 2015

As we prepare to enter Lent, I would like to reflect on a phrase in the reading from Joel assigned for Ash Wednesday.  "Rend your hearts and not your clothing. Return to the Lord your God"  (Joel 2:13)

This line was originally part of the advice given to a community of Israelites, who had just returned to Israel from exile in Babylonia, and who were now being warned that God's judgement on them would include a plague of locusts. In ancient times, the rending, or tearing of clothing was a sign of mourning.  The prophet Joel is encouraging the people of his nation to show their sorrow for the things they have done wrong by tearing their hearts and turning them toward God, rather than by tearing their clothing as a sign of penance.

Although this line refers to an ancient mourning practice, it still speaks to us today.  We have many 21st century temptations: overconsumption, misuse of the world's resources, and pursuit of wealth, to mention just a few.  Turning from these temptations toward God, requires a heart that is open to God's Word and God's interventions through Jesus Christ. We are very conscious of external symbols, and may act as if God will be impressed by our outward signs of piety and religiosity.  Joel's words remind us that it is the way our heart behaves that is important in God's sight, not all the external signs and symbols.

Yes, by all means, participate in the practice of having ashes placed on your forehead on Ash Wednesday.  But remember that the ashes are for you, not to impress God.  The ashes are to remind you that you have been marked with the sign of the cross in baptism and that God has made you his own.  Reflect on what it means to be marked with Christ's cross.  Remember what it means to follow Christ.

As we enter Lent and engage in the practices of prayer and almsgiving, remember Martin Luther's words that you help your neighbor because your neighbor is in need of help, not because you earn favor with God by doing so.  Reflect on what prayer means in your life, not what it means to God.

Pray that God might open your heart to hear God's words and turn your heart ever more closely toward God.