An Ash Wednesday Reflection February 25, 2009
Posted by Dan R. Dick in Devotional Reflection.Tags: Ash Wednesday
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Meant To Be Seen
What are the outward and visible signs of our life of faith? When people look at us, what unmistakable evidence exists that identifies us as members of the body of Christ? Today, as we begin our Lenten observance, we receive a mark of ash and oil that signifies our commitment to Christ. This is a mark for all to see, placed on the forehead. Its very presence is a statement of faith. For a brief time, we bear an outward and visible sign — but once the ashes and oil are washed away, what will signify to others that we are disciples of Jesus Christ?
Signs and symbols are an important part of our story and history. The cross, the fish, the dove, the shepherd’s crook, the Chi Rho, and many others span history as testaments to our beliefs. In our day, these symbols are found on car bumpers, coffee mugs, T-shirts and refrigerator magnets. They endure because they have meaning. And yet, alone they often don’t tell much. We don’t really know anything of substance about the woman who wears the cross necklace or the guy driving the minivan with the Icthus/fish symbol on the back. Symbols are a bit ‘fuzzy’ sometimes. I live in Nashville, and I remember the days following the attacks on New York and Washington on 9/11. Many people put out flags as a sign and symbol of patriotism and solidarity. What I found confusing was how many people in our area hung out Confederate flags. What was that all about? Mixed symbols, mixed messages.
