Well-maybe they won't say it that way...
But as an elementary and middle schooler, there were definitely times that this question was asked!
As an adult, it might come in the form of weird looks, "so why do you do the ash thing?" or "What is that about again?"
Keep it simple. An extensive theological answer isn't needed here!
You main points to focus on are...
1) Beginning of Lent
Lent is the time of the Church Calendar where we spiritually prepare to commemorate Jesus' Passion, Death and Resurrection. Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent.
2) Repentance
One of the key "themes" of Lent is repentance. To repent is to turn away from something. In this case, we are turning away from sin and towards God.
3) Ashes
In Biblical times, ashes symbolized this repentance, and the Hebrew people would mark their bodies with ashes to symbolize their repentance from sin.
✨BIBLICAL CONTEXT:✨
Genesis 3:19: "You are dust and to dust you shall return."
Job 42:6: "“therefore I despise myself, and repent in dust and ashes.”
Daniel 9:3: “I, Daniel, turned my face to the Lord, seeking him by prayer and supplications with fasting and sackcloth and ashes.”
These verses show the historical significance of ashes. They're used during times of repentance and intense fasting and prayer, both of which we practice in the Lenten Season.
Here's an example of how you might summarize all of these things:
"Today is Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent, a season leading up to the celebration of Jesus' death and Resurrection. During Lent, Christians focus on fasting, giving to others, and reflecting on their relationship with God. It's a time to turn away from sin and grow closer to God. The ashes symbolize that repentance, which means returning to friendship with God. It's a historical practice, and is full of meaning. It reminds us of the importance of this season of Lent and of repentance. So, when I receive ashes today, it’s not just an outward sign, but a personal commitment to turn away from sin and renew my relationship with God."
Have more questions about Lent or Ash Wednesday in particular? Drop them in the comments!
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