…for dust you are and to dust you will return.
(Genesis 3:19)
Almighty God, you
have created us out of the dust of the earth: Grant that these ashes may be to
us a sign of our mortality and penitence, that we may remember that it is only
by your gracious gift that we are given everlasting life; through Jesus Christ
our Savior. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, Liturgy for Ash Wednesday)
Lord Christ,
It's not about me.
It's not about me.
(Repeat until it sinks in.)
Starring in my own life,
I must resist that.
This performance could close today.
Under the best circumstances,
my empire will fall in thirty years or so.
I'm counting on another Kingdom.
There are some things in my nature
that need to be seared or burned away.
I shudder as I pray,
but turn up the flame Lord,
if that's your remedy.
This is out of sync
with our "selfie" culture.
Yet I know your acceptance and love.
I know your presence in my life.
During Lent,
let’s proceed with my repair.
Amen.
