Joel 2:12The Lord invites us to rend our hearts, not our garments. What's all that about? Rending or breaking something is a sign of one's sacrifice unto a higher power. In ritual, people do that to animals, skin, and bread. God showed us such a loving sacrifice in the breaking of the body of his Son. During this Lenten time of sacrifice -- when we give back to God that which we enjoy (our lives) -- we are encouraged to sacrifice of ourselves in a more interior way (your heart) than just a symbolic or external sacrifice (the color of your sweater). Before you are marked with ashes, bring your heart back where it belongs.
On this Ash Wednesday, Chicago is waiting for this highly anticipated "snowstorm." So far, nothing yet. Birthday blessings on my nephew Michael and on all those who begin this holy season of prayer.