Throughout Old Testament history we hear about ashes being used as a sign of total repentance to God.  In Job 42:3–6, Job says to God: “I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee. Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.”  There are other occasions when the ceremonial act of repentance, sack cloth and ashes are used to outwardly show how much we need God for our salvation.

We are all sinners.  We’re born that way.  It’s part of our DNA and the only way to receive forgiveness is to go to God with repentant hearts and confess our sins.  Love does mean having to say you’re sorry – contrary to public belief – when it comes to God.

Ash Wednesday is a time for us to contemplate on our Savior’s ministry and the perfect love He has for all people.  He didn’t just appear for one specific sect or denomination.  He didn’t come to earth to save only Lutherans or Catholics.  His passion occurred to take away the sin of the world.

We don’t cover ourselves in ashes and sack cloth anymore, but this is the perfect time to look inward at the dirt within us and bring that darkness before Almighty God and simply ask for forgiveness.  He can’t wait to give it to us.  Out of gratitude for this amazing gift, we should then go and tell others of the way to heaven – through Jesus, Christ, the Savior of ALL!