Embracing Grace amid Repentance

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a solemn season of repentance, reflection, and preparation for Easter. The practice of observing Lent dates back to the early centuries of Christianity, with its roots in the 40-day fast of Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). By the 4th century, the Church had established Lent as a formal period of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving in preparation for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection.

Ash Wednesday, specifically, became a significant day of repentance, with the practice of marking believers’ foreheads with ashes emerging as a public sign of humility and mortality. The phrase spoken—“Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” (Genesis 3:19)—reminds Christians of their dependence on God’s grace.

The Lutheran Reformation retained the observance of Lent but emphasized its role as a time of reflection on Christ’s suffering and our need for repentance, rather than a means of earning favor with God. While early Lutherans largely discontinued strict fasting regulations, many Lutheran churches today still observe Ash Wednesday with the imposition of ashes and Lenten services focused on Christ’s passion.

Lent remains a season of spiritual renewal, inviting Christians to fix their eyes on Christ, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Whether through prayer, fasting, or acts of service, Lent calls us to deeper faith and a renewed appreciation of God’s mercy in Christ.

Join us for Ash Wednesday service with the Imposition of Ashes on Wednesday, March 5, 7:00 pm.