Ash Wednesday

Readings of the Day

Today marks the first day of our Lenten journey. What have you chosen for your Lenten sacrifice? Perhaps you’re giving up sweets, going to daily Mass, staying off social media or following this daily reflection series. How does your Lenten sacrifice bring you closer to God – or does it?

The first words we hear in today’s reading from Joel instruct us to return to God with our whole hearts. And isn’t that what Lent is all about? Yet, how often do we simply go through the motions, taking on Lenten sacrifices out of obligation but arriving to the Easter celebration unchanged?

In our work at Catholic Charities agencies and in parishes we are in the business of caring for others. For many of us, that work extends beyond caring for our clients, staff and coworkers and carries over into our daily lives as parents, spouses or caregivers. We fulfill our obligations. We go through the motions. We are tirelessly devoted to upholding the dignity of others, particularly the most vulnerable, and now and then we have moments that remind us why we have devoted our lives to this work. We recognize Christ in the other. We recall that he gave his life for the whole world, even those on the margins.

How often do you stop to remember that he died for you too?

This Lent return to God with your whole heart. Draw near to Him. Journey with Him these 40 days so that you may share in the glory of His resurrection this Easter and for eternity.

Allison Cavazos is the Associate Director of Parish Relations for Catholic Charities of Central Texas and a member of the CCUSA Parish Social Ministry Leadership Team.

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