Ash Wednesday invites us to begin again. Not halfway. Not casually. But with intention. The ashes remind us that everything in this world fades away. What does not fade is our relationship with God. This week is about letting go of whatever competes for our heart so that we can return to Him completely.

Overview

Ash Wednesday marks the start of our Lenten journey — and the first days are often the hardest. When the novelty wears off, so can our discipline. That is why this day calls us to roots, not just emotion.

Through the prophet Joel, we hear the call: "Return to me with your whole heart." Lent is not about temporary religious enthusiasm. It is about surrendering what binds us so that God can have all of us — not part of us.

The ashes on our forehead are not decoration. They are declaration. A visible reminder that everything in this world passes away, but our soul is eternal. This is the acceptable time. Now is the moment to be reconciled. Now is the moment to let go.

Scripture Focus

First Reading: Joel 2:12–18

"Return to me with your whole heart."

Joel reminds us that God desires fullness — not leftovers. He wants our whole heart, not divided loyalty.

Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:20–6:2

"Be reconciled to God… Now is a very acceptable time."

Paul removes the excuse of delay. Not next week. Not when life slows down. Now.

Gospel: Matthew 6:1–6, 16–18

"When you fast… when you pray… when you give alms…"

Jesus teaches us to let go of pride and perform our sacrifices in secret. Lent is not for show — it is for surrender.

Letting Go Lenten Series with Greg Wasinski follows Year A of the Liturgical Cycle