The Road Less Traveled - a Lent Journey for TeensSample

Ash Wednesday

Let’s Prepare for Lent

Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent. Today we come into contact with the fact that we won’t live forever. We are mortal beings. Death is not something we like to think about, especially as a teenager.

So why think about it then? When we connect with the fact that we will die, it brings new meaning to live every day fully. It’s like knowing your holiday is only for a week. This knowledge helps you realize you must use every moment wisely. Knowing we are mortal helps us live more purposefully.

Today, on Ash Wednesday, we receive the sign of the cross made from ash on our foreheads to remind us, “For dust you are, and to dust you will return.” This reminds us to make sure we really make every day of our lives count.

Exercise:

Go outside and put your hands on the ground. Work the soil through your fingers. Rub your hands together. The scripture says you are dust, and to dust you will return. How does this make you feel? Share your feelings with God.

Prayer:

Lord, help me live each day fully.