📖 Ash Wednesday Gospel Reading: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21

⛪ On Ash Wednesday, you might notice something special happening in churches — the marking of an ashen cross on foreheads.

🗝️ This ancient Christian practice reminds us that while we were made from dust and will return to dust, we won’t stay there.

✝️ Through Christ’s death and resurrection, you’re promised a glorious new body on the last day.

📜 The Gospel reading for this day comes from Matthew 6, where Jesus talks about giving, prayer, and fasting.

💭 His main message? Do things for the right reason.

⚠️ He warns about practicing righteousness just to be seen by others, because then the only reward will be that fleeting attention.

🤲 Instead, when we give to those in need, do it quietly — don’t let our left hand know what your right hand is doing.

👀 Your Father, who sees what’s done in secret, will reward you.

✨ This isn’t about never helping others publicly. It’s about your motivation. When people notice our good deeds, give glory to God instead of seeking praise for ourselves.

🙏 The same goes for fasting — don’t put on a gloomy face to show everyone how pious we are.

🤫 Do these things quietly, between you and God.

❓ You might wonder: Does receiving the ash cross contradict this teaching?

🤷 It depends. Are you wearing it hoping others will notice?

💔 Or does it remind you that you’re a sinner who needs Jesus?

(💦 If you’re tempted to seek glory, wash it off after service.)

🌟 But if you forget it’s there and someone points it out, you have a beautiful opportunity to share: “Because Christ has redeemed me, though I’m dust, I’ll rise again. God be praised!” 🙌

Contributor Merritt Demski is the Pastor at St. John’s in Alta, Iowa.

#higherthings #lcms #lutheran #ashwednesday

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