Today, Catholics mark the beginning of the Lenten season with the celebration of Ash Wednesday. We recognize our sin, our mortality and our need for a Savior. As the priest places ashes on our foreheads we are reminded, “You are dust, and unto dust you shall return” (Genesis 3:19). It is a time for repentance as we begin the observance of Lent.
Even though the occasion is solemn and humbling, it reminds me I am dearly loved by God. That he would love me, a sinner, and send his Son to be a sacrifice for my sin—how remarkable! Jesus’ self sacrifice paid a debt I could have never paid myself.
A meaningful gift doesn’t come without sacrifice from the giver. Just as God the Father sacrificed his own Son to save our souls; we should make sacrifices for others. Lent gives us 40 days to make small sacrifices–and we will be giving up things like coffee, sweets or even social networking to refocus and prepare our hearts for Easter.