- Joined
- Apr 25, 2006
- Messages
- 18,404
The message
As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.' Matthew 10:7
Watch out for dirty foreheads! As Lent begins, some churches literally mark the occasion with crosses on people's foreheads. They use ash from last year's burnt Palm Crosses, saying, 'for dust you are and to dust you will return.' (Genesis 3:19) 'Ash Wednesday' is a day for reflection. No-one has to ask, 'Is there death after life?', but rather, 'Is there life after death?' What will people say about you at your funeral? Are you happy with your life and relationships with others?
Today people are reminded of their mortality; that they will have to give an account of their lives to God; that they should seek His forgiveness whilst mourning their wrongdoing; and that they need to change to live with Jesus as their King. Today's verse echoes John the Baptist's preaching (See Monday December 4th) and Jesus' message elsewhere. Through His ministry, Jesus was setting up God's kingdom. The disciples were sharing this radical new life in word and deed, and seeing His power at work (10:8a) - something they'd experience more after Pentecost.
Wearing ashes may be helpful for some, but what's more important is honest private reflection before God. What message are you communicating daily through your words and actions? As you go, consider marking the beginning of Lent by resolving to live the Christian faith urgently, with Jesus' help and the hope of eternal life!
God of judgement and forgiveness, help me to turn towards your love today, and then get up, go and do, in Jesus' name. Amen.
As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.' Matthew 10:7
Watch out for dirty foreheads! As Lent begins, some churches literally mark the occasion with crosses on people's foreheads. They use ash from last year's burnt Palm Crosses, saying, 'for dust you are and to dust you will return.' (Genesis 3:19) 'Ash Wednesday' is a day for reflection. No-one has to ask, 'Is there death after life?', but rather, 'Is there life after death?' What will people say about you at your funeral? Are you happy with your life and relationships with others?
Today people are reminded of their mortality; that they will have to give an account of their lives to God; that they should seek His forgiveness whilst mourning their wrongdoing; and that they need to change to live with Jesus as their King. Today's verse echoes John the Baptist's preaching (See Monday December 4th) and Jesus' message elsewhere. Through His ministry, Jesus was setting up God's kingdom. The disciples were sharing this radical new life in word and deed, and seeing His power at work (10:8a) - something they'd experience more after Pentecost.
Wearing ashes may be helpful for some, but what's more important is honest private reflection before God. What message are you communicating daily through your words and actions? As you go, consider marking the beginning of Lent by resolving to live the Christian faith urgently, with Jesus' help and the hope of eternal life!
God of judgement and forgiveness, help me to turn towards your love today, and then get up, go and do, in Jesus' name. Amen.
