ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
March 6, 2025
Last night at the Ash Wednesday Service, I spoke about ashes, dust, and dirt. Each of these represents something that has come to an end in some way or another. However, in each case, they are also essential for bringing forth life or providing the necessary components to see life flourish. Whether we are playing in the dirt, looking at dust blowing in the wind, or wearing the mark of ashes upon our forehead, they serve as a reminder that with every ending there is a new beginning. Endings can be extraordinarily painful. Even when it is something that should come to an end, it can be hard. But Lent offers us the opportunity to reflect on where change is needed, and to see that ashes, dust, and dirt serve as a sort of middle ground between the decision to make a change and the hard work that is necessary to bring actual change. Ashes after a forest fire are an amazing source of nutrients to bring forth new life. Dust is required for the formation of clouds that bring rain. And dirt, though the decomposing of what was once living, is the soil for new life and growth. It’s as if God has woven into the fabric of creation little reminders, so that as we weep over loss, terminations, or even death, there is hope to be found in some of the simplest things around.
Holy God, for all the signs that lead me to new opportunities and offer hope in the unseen, I express my gratitude. There is no question that it is all necessary for me to continue in the call to faithfulness, compassion, and justice in this world. Amen.
