Three teenagers and one pre-teen helped make our Ash Wednesday worship gathering happen. One served as sound board apprentice, the other three led prayers or scripture readings. Having young people eager to participate in worship always makes my heart glad.

Glad hearts were in short supply this Wednesday.  Too much death. Always and forever, too much death. Yet, acknowledging our mortality is a key component of Ash Wednesday.  As is, at least at Woodridge United Methodist, a time of extended silent prayer. That fills my soul more than just about anything.

Our sequence this week:

-Singing “Come and Fill Our Hearts”

-8 minutes of silence

-This beautiful song by Over the Rhine

-My brief reflection:

Part of our job tonight is to remind ourselves of our inescapable mortality. Tragically, we have been reminded of that all too well today. A recent diagnosis of cancer, community members entering hospice care, and the mass shooting in a Florida high school.

So, yes, we have much for which we need to repent: the way we allow rampant gun violence; poverty; scapegoating of immigrants, and so much more.

Yet…I am convinced God’s favorite people are broken.

I am convinced we are not alone.

I am convinced we belong right here.

-Imposition of ashes

-Going out on this song by Gungor:

What was your Ash Wednesday experience?