Ash Wednesday
February 17, 2021 Matthew 6:16-21 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. The words you heard at the beginning of this evening’s service should echo within your head, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” Instead, they likely will fade from your memory even before you arise tomorrow and make the sign of the cross, beginning a new day in Christ Jesus. The thing is, you don’t want to hear these words – they speak to your sinfulness, your lack of repentance, and ultimately your mortality. The pastors are no different, as you approach, we quietly, yet reverently speak the words into your ears as we trace the cross of ash upon your forehead, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” In seminary, a professor would not only request, but demand to serve during the Ash Wednesday service on campus. In deafening silence, you heard the feet of the Christians shuffle across the cement floor to the front of the semin