Dust and Ashes

The imposition of ashes, this assurance of our physical death, carries two tones that we should consider during Lent - on one hand, this is a somber thought which points us to remembering God's judgement and our own mortality. But on the other hand, there is a freedom in this truth that we also find in Psalm 51 - when we remember our low position, and see the high position of God, we are freed from the need to "keep it together." We can slow down, rest, admit our weakness and find freedom under the reign of King Jesus.

Yesterday, Ash Wednesday, we were reminded that we are but dust, and to dust we will return. The process of receiving ashes is a sobering one, especially if we have recently lost a loved one.  Memories come crashing through, but, when our loved one had a relationship with Jesus, it makes all the difference for us as Christians. While we grieve our loss, and miss that person deeply, we also know that their story doesn't end with their death. It is just the beginning.

The two scripture references below are a good example of repentance (Psalm 51) as well as acknowledging our sinful nature and the need for this repentance all the time. I can certainly relate with Paul as he said, "I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do." (Romans 7:15)

Father, forgive my weak nature, my sinful ways, and reveal your path for my life, especially during this Lenten Season.  Amen.

Psalm 16:1-6

Romans 7:14-25

Time to Dust off the Sandals

Acts 13:51-52 (NIV)  So they shook the dust from their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium.  And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

What a curious couple of verses.  It is written how the Jews would shake the dust off their feet when leaving a Gentile town on the way back to their own land. This seems like a way to stick noses in the air and say, “We are better than you.”  Similar to the childhood practice of flinching when touched by an undesirable in fear of catching cooties.

Jesus had instructed his followers not to waste time on those who rejected the Good News. "And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave, as a testimony against them." (Mark 6:11)  Words like these give me a sense of relief when sharing my story with someone.  My only obligation is to tell of God and His ways. The Holy Spirit's job is to soften the heart.  My work is done once I have presented the message of Jesus and His Good News.

The real lesson for this writer comes in the next verse.  “…the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. Regardless the way things turn out, whether or not our person comes to believe, we still hold on to our joy.  The Holy Spirit is present for us no matter the outcome.  The joy we discovered as Believers is not affected.  We might feel sad or experience regret for the loss of a soul, but our own salvation is still intact.  

Acts 13:51-14:5