ASH WEDNESDAY
Mt 6:1-6,16-18
Rising from the Ashes

Today, as we begin the sacred season of Lent, we are reminded of a profound truth: we are dust, and to dust we shall return. The ashes placed on our foreheads are not just a symbol but a call to humility, repentance, and renewal. They remind us that life is fleeting and that our journey must be one of transformation—a movement away from pride and self-centeredness toward humility and dependence on God.

Lent is not simply about giving things up or performing external rituals. Jesus invites us into a deep, interior conversion—one that involves fasting, prayer, and almsgiving as paths to real change. Fasting is not just about food; it is about disciplining our desires so that our spirit may be stronger than our worldly inclinations. What are we willing to let go of—not just in our diet, but in our hearts? Perhaps it is time to fast from negativity, gossip, distractions, or selfishness.

Almsgiving is not just about donating things we no longer need. It is about giving of ourselves, being more present to those in need, and making sacrifices that bring life to others. How can we give more of our time, love, and attention to those who need it most?

And finally, prayer—the heart of our Lenten journey. Without prayer, fasting and almsgiving become empty actions. This is the time to return to Jesus with sincerity, to seek His mercy, and to renew our relationship with Him.

Let this Lent be a time of true transformation, not just an external observance. May our sacrifices lead us to a renewed heart, one that beats in rhythm with Christ’s love. Something good is on the way—our return to the Lord.

© Claretian Publications, Hong Kong, China
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025