Ash Wednesday

Jesus also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.” Luke 18:9-14

Ash Wednesday Litany

O Loving Word of God given for us

let us now and always remember that

the palms that once waved for you

are burned to remind us of the cross.

Lord Jesus, draw near to us this day.

O gentle Savior, author of healing

we cannot feel the touch of others

nor gather, kneel and pray together

hear our aching and sorrowing hearts.

Lord Jesus, draw near to us this day.

Wondrous God who loves us all

we have not sought or honored you

we leaned on our will and cunning

while so many have suffered loss.

Lord Jesus, draw near to us today.

We begin this Lent with heavy hearts

yet you bore the weight of the world

you suffered so that we might live

your sacrifice offered for once and for all.

Lord Jesus, draw near to us today.

Help us to be sacrificial and giving

Lord Jesus, draw near to us and stay.

Make us humble so that we might serve

Lord Jesus, draw near to us and stay.

Let your love be our sword and shield

Lord Jesus, draw near to us and stay.

Renew us for love and service now

Lord Jesus, draw near to us and stay. Amen