Ash Wednesday Meditation- When ashes are rubbed on the forehead in the shape of a cross, these words are given: "Remember, man, that thou art dust, and unto dust thou shall return."

Ashes scattered in my wake –
residue in hearts;
Ashes born of selfishness,
feelings torn apart.
All the hurts that I inflict
wanting my own way,
Fueled by my consuming pride,
leave no hope for today.

Flames of Jesus' sacrifice
reveal truth I spurn;
Smoldering ashes choke my soul --
Burn, poor sinner, burn!

Out of ashes, hope revives –
Jesus lives anew!
Christ's atoning sacrifice
paid the debt o'erdue.
Calvary revealed my sin,
beckoned me to Him;
Sacred blood extinguished fire,
bid me enter in.

Daily now, I seek His grace
to walk the pilgrim road,
No longer guilt-encumbered
by sin's unwieldy load.
This body made from ashes
will turn to dust once more,
But I will dwell with Jesus
on heaven's golden shore.

By Connie Faust

The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me (Jesus) . . .
to give unto them beauty for ashes. . .
from Isaiah 61:1-3