ASH WEDNESDAY

About nine years ago, during an Ash Wednesday service, I was blessed with the experience of true forgiveness.  Before I approached the alter for the mark of the cross in ashes, I confessed to the Lord about my "unforegiveness".  In return, the joy of being forgiven by the Father overwhelmed me.  Indeed, by letting go of my resentment and personal ill feelings, I had nothing to loose but much to gain.

 

Last evening at the Ash Wednesday worship, I heard for the very first time a sermon delivered in English by Mrs Nola Leung (wife of bishop S. Leung).  In her wonderful sermon quoting Matthew 6:1 - 18,  I was strongly reminded by:

 

"For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.  But if you do not forgive their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."  (Matthew 6:14-16)

 

On Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent, Mrs Leung also encouraged us to:

1)  Self examination and confession.

2)  Give, pray and fast as seen by God and not men.

3)  Meditate often on His Words.

 

May the Lord guide you through this Lent, in preparation for Jesus' redemption on the cross for all our sins.

 

"Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God."   (Romans 8:8)

 

jane