We come forward, humbled and contrite, aware of our brokenness and in need of healing. We start anew in Christ. The minister reaches out, thumb blackened with ash, and signs us on the forehead: ‘Repent and believe in the Gospel.’

In the Gospel, Jesus seems to be speaking against outward signs of piety, such as this Ash Wednesday ritual. However, this would be too simplistic a reading of Jesus’ intention and understanding. Jesus himself engaged in outward signs and rituals, such as his baptism by John in the River Jordan (Matthew 3:13-15).

Jesus is not opposed to ritual; rather, he denounces mere ritual – the empty gesture, the false piety aimed at appearances of righteousness.

Similarly, Jesus insists that when we pray, we ought to go to our room and shut the door. However, since Jesus himself prayed publicly, we must reject an overly simplistic reading of the text. Some early Christian writers (e.g. Origen) interpret this passage with a more spiritual meaning, teaching that the room where we pray in ‘secret’ is our heart and soul. Thus, Jesus teaches that our prayer must transcend the external.

As we begin this Lenten journey, let us examine our intentions. Am I here for just another Ash Wednesday, or do I desire a change of heart, deeper integrity, a turning away from sin and a renewal of virtue? Do I truly intend to ground my life in the meaning of this ritual?

May our Lenten disciplines, assisted by the grace of this season, deepen our integrity. Thus, when we gather for the great feast of Easter, the words of praise on our lips may truly echo the prayer of our hearts.

by Fr Michael Grace