Ash Wednesday | JOY for Today
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent: a period of reflection and self-denial in preparation for Easter. While this day is not meant to be JOYful, we know of the JOY that's coming and it soothes our soul. Living in JOY is a way of life, we can be JOYful in periods of mourning and periods of solemn reflection because we know the source of our JOY. Furthermore, periods of self-reflection and self-denial are restorative and redemptive practices that make room for more JOY. Dirt Texture picture by Daniel Smith at Public Domain Pictures Ash Wednesday Offerings Did You Know... Wolfe Stew Connects Bible Verses Activity Suggestions (for families, groups, or individuals) Did You Know: Ash Wednesday takes place 40 days before Easter not counting Sundays? It marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting in preparation of Easter that parallels the 40 days Jesus fasted ( Matthew 4:1-11 ) before undergoing Satan's temptation in preparation of his ministry. Ash crosses on