The forty days of Lent begins today Ash Wednesday.

Dear God, we are so thankful for this Season of Lent, this season when we could not only think on the hurt, the pain, the shame and reproach that Jesus bore, but we could think of what we could look forward to, because of Jesus’ time in the wilderness. And so, dear Lord, give us penitent hearts, give us courage to go through this Season of Lent with joyous hope as we look forward to Jesus’ second coming. May our journey be enlightening, may the cross be always before us, and may the light of God, shine on in our hearts. All this ask in your precious name. Amen!