February 17, 2021: Ash Wednesday

On a day like this, we are awakened to our frailty, and how affected we are in a world broken by sin and evil.

We realize the urgency of turning to God, pleading us for His mercy.

And we do so because we know He is the God Who loves us, and has saved us.

Indeed, as St. Paul writes, "now is a very acceptable time. Behold, now is the day of salvation."

And so we turn to Him anew with steadfast devotion, not trying to elevate ourselves, but honor Him Who has offered Himself for us and the opportunity to be in relationship with Him, expressed in prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, so the blessing may even extend to others.