"The journey may be quite long, but in the process, we reflect on our Christian living, renew our religious vow, and enjoy a happy beginning of a renewed self by embracing Christ forever."
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season among Christians and its denominations worldwide. This is a significant annual liturgical event commemorating Christ's 40-day journey of sacrifice and penitence, during which he endured suffering and temptations toward his destination.
The ash, a potent symbol of our faith, is not just a mark on our foreheads. It is a profound reminder of our mortality, our spiritual journey, and our commitment to Christ. It is made from the burnt palm leaves of the previous year's Palm Sunday, mixed with holy water, and applied to the forehead in the shape of a cross. This ritual, performed after the homily, is a powerful moment of reflection and renewal.
The ash is not an ordinary symbol of the Christian faith. It is a reminder that we came from ash, and from there shall we return by what is written in the book of Genesis. It also reminds us of a spiritual conversion to reunite with Christ and have Him as our life's center.
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| The Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, a significant place of worship for many Christians, holds special services and processions during the Lenten season, particularly on Ash Wednesday. This basilica is a symbol of our faith and a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. |
Like Christ, followers may have made a relevant sacrifice in our time. Fasting could mean giving up food by not overeating, resulting in gluttony, which is considered a sin in the Christian law. The budget for food on this day may go to someone who needs it the most. I remember in college the teachings of our Professor in Religious education about the corporal works of mercy, which include feeding the hungry. These are acts of charity that directly benefit the physical needs of others. It is not just a one-day practice; any day is the best time to give something to others in need.
Today's homily reminds us to sacrifice, even for a single day. Some would give up their meal, others would give up vices, and some would donate something to the needy. From a deeper perspective, this is significant since we are taught not to be attached to things that would give us harm and trouble later on.
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The beginning of Lent is the beginning of our sacrifice, tolerance, and survival. This is like observing Christ's passion, death, and resurrection for 40 days until Easter. The journey may be quite long, but in the process, we reflect on our Christian living, renew our religious vow, and enjoy a happy beginning of a continued self by embracing Christ in our lives forever. Tolerance and survival here refer to our ability to endure and overcome challenges, just as Christ did during his 40-day journey.
© 2013 Del Cusay
