Lent begins with the receiving of ashes, a penitential practice that dates back over a millennium. To the outsider it might appear to be a very strange ritual, but to Christians of multiple denominations it is an expression of repentance and a desire to change one’s sinful ways. Even for those who do not worship on a regular basis, “getting ashes” is not to be missed. Aside from Christmas and Easter it commands the biggest turnout. In a very public way it says that I am a sinner. It also is a recognition of my own mortality, and someday “unto dust I shall return.”
Receiving this mark of repentance is something repeated every year. It’ s as if the church is saying we need to undergo a period of prayer and fasting and good works again and again. Those who have lived through many Lents will readily admit that rooting out habitual sins be they large or small is hard work. Often we may find ourselves in the same place as last year and the year before that, without making any great progress. But progress is not the primary goal any more than losing weight by fasting or doing a rosary marathon is the way to go. Entering yet another Lent is a humble admission that I still have the need to be transformed. It may even signify my acceptance of the reality that this brokenness may be lifelong. At the very least it keeps us humble and reminds us that the movement from ashes to Easter is never complete.
Our desire to break free of the bonds of sin – more than any accomplishment – reveals that we take these 40 days seriously and are willing to make the effort once again. Perhaps that is what is most pleasing to God.
