An ashen cross.........

Yesterday was Ash Wednesday in the western Christian Church. It marks the beginning of a liturgical season known as Lent.

In churches large and small, ashes were being prepared as a part of an ancient ritual which marks this day.  Made from the burnt palms of Palm Sunday 2017 the ashes were being mixed with a little olive oil, perhaps a drop or two of dish washing liquid (it helps when it is time to wash them off).  Clergy of every shape and stripe were preparing to remind those who gathered that just as there was a first day of their life, there would be a last day as well.

"Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return."

It only takes a year or two of making ashen crosses on the foreheads of octogenarians and toddlers alike to realize that someone you touch with ashes will not be with you when Ash Wednesday rolls around again next year.  One of the faithful - those who have wrapped themselves in the ritual of confession and ashes - will complete the cycle of trusting in this God and lay down for the last time. Some will be no surprise; some unexpected.  Of the many deep yet eternal truths that are a part of this liturgical moment, the frailty of our human life is one.

Seventeen families were forced to face this reality in Southern Florida yesterday.  The child they sent to school was not coming home, and the ashes were theirs.  May our prayers rise before you as incense O Lord.  Comfort the brokenhearted.  Heal the wounded.  Hold fast to these young people who now rest with you.

Then trace an ashen cross on the forehead of America.  Mark this day as the end of our blindness.  Remind everyone again.........you are dust, and even you will one day return to dust.

Rest eternal grant them O Lord, and let light perpetual shine upon them.