The imposition of ashes is often described as an
outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace. The actual mark of the cross is a sign of repentance. However, the ashes eventually wear or wash
off. The physical mark is gone. That is when the inward and spiritual grace
in our loves must be evident to the world around us. It can be through our actions, our commitment
or our attitude.
I spent yesterday evening at church, where along
with other incredible adults I mentor a group of Middle School kids each
week. My group of ten girls range in age from 11 to
14 years old. This year, instead of
taking the youth to the Ash Wednesday service in our sanctuary, the decision
was made to have a youth led service in our Family Life Center. Prior to the service, we split into our small
groups to talk about Ash Wednesday, Lent and what the season means to each of
us.
I am continually amazed at how much I learn from
these young girls. Keep in mind – they are
experiencing what is probably the most difficult period in their lives – Middle
School. They shared their thoughts on
Lent with me and what they thought they might “give up” as a sacrifice to God
and as a sign of their willingness to follow and grow. Several of them also added that they would
substitute prayer or Bible study or a devotion to fill the TV or Facebook time –
Wow. I love how their eyes and ears are
open to what God wants in their lives.
After our group time, we moved on to worship. The service included great music from the
high school praise band and very inspiring messages from our middle school and high
school youth coordinators. More than
that, though – it included moments.
And these moments were very powerful outward and visible signs. A group of 15 or so kids circled up in prayer. Kids praying on their knees before a small
cross. Kids with their arms around each
other as they sang the songs of their faith.
These moments were while they were with their church friends and
family. My prayer today is for all of these kids to
continually feel God’s presence – especially during this season.
Watch for the outward and visible signs. Celebrate them – they are God at work.
From The Message -
1 Thessalonians
2:13:
And now we look back
on all this and thank God, an artesian well of thanks! When you got the
Message of God we preached, you didn't pass it
off as just one more human opinion, but you took it to heart as God's true word to you, which it is, God himself at work in you believers!
Choose Joy!
Melissa
Love it!!!!
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