Happy Ash Wednesday

Holy God,
as we enter into
this season of preparation
let us be mindful of the path
your Son walked
on our behalf.

Grant us the clarity to see
our own mortality
and face with courage
the reality of death.

Give us the strength also
to meditate
on the mortality of Jesus,
and on his willingness to die
so that we might live.

Bring us through these forty days
to the time of rejoicing and celebration,
when we stand again and marvel
at the empty tomb.

And so, let this season be a season of purpose
for the faith that defines us
and the church that sustains us
and the promise that gives us hope.

Amen.