Word of the Week: Ash Wednesday

As we begin the season of Lent on this Ash Wednesday, we learn about the history, meaning and symbolism in the practice of the Imposition of Ashes on Ash Wednesday. It is sad that many see this as a "Roman Catholic" practice and do not make use of it in our Lutheran churches. While this practice has been misused by some, if properly used, it is a beautiful and very meaningful practice that was used in the Ancient Church and has been used in Lutheranism even to this day. It is a clear reminder of our mortality (Law) as well as our Baptism, though which our sins were washed away (Gospel). What could be more clearly Lutheran (or Christian) than that? Lord, bless our Lenten meditations on this Ash Wednesday and throughout this Passion Season!