From Dust To Dust

Today is Ash Wednesday - the beginning of Lent.  

It's funny, since I left the Catholic Church, I haven't felt much of a need to really observe and participate in this season in the traditional Catholic way (going to church to have ashes rubbed on my forehead, "giving something up", dying for Easter to roll around so I could have that "something" again).  I don't know why I've abandoned it...especially considering the fact that some of my most profound spiritual experiences have happened while fasting and praying during Lent.  

But this morning, the first thought that ran through my head as I drifted into consciousness while still snuggled under my down comforter was "It's Ash Wednesday today."

I'm feeling compelled this year.  I'm feeling called.  I'm feeling like He wants to show me something this season.  Or maybe He just sees the distracted and preoccupied state of my heart and knows (as He always knows) that I need a time to focus on Him, who He is, and what He did for me.

I'm a sinner, you know.  He died for ME.  Because He loves me.  Can I take the next 40 days to dwell on those facts and focus on my Lord?  I think so.  Not sure how yet, but I'm working on it.

Peace, my sweet friends.  I hope that this season of preparing for Easter will be filled with blessings for you, and will be a time to draw nearer to the One who loves you like no other.