Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Ash Wednesday

Scripture
As a prophetic people you are called, under the direction of the spiritual authorities and with the common consent of the people, to discern the divine will for your own time and in the places where you serve.—Doctrine and Covenants 162:2c

Reflection
On Ash Wednesday, we begin the season of Lent—a forty-day period of introspection and preparation leading to Easter. “It is a season of being changed and emptied so that new life might come to birth in us and resurrection be found in us as well” (Wendy M. Wright, The Rising, 17). It is also a day to begin our spiritual preparation for World Conference. Whether you are attending the Conference or supporting it with your prayers and contributions, this Ash Wednesday launches our journey to begin a process of discerning God’s will.

As part of any discernment process, we face the possibility of change. The church has experienced a number of changes over the last decade. To name just a few examples: stakes, regions, and districts are now mission centers; new World Church leaders have been called and ordained; and the church has changed its name.

Many are frightened by changes and feel alienated by them. However, one thing has not and never will change: God’s love for each of us. God recognizes us no matter our location, our position in life, or what we call ourselves. God never leaves us alone. So, as change comes, we are able to stand firm in the knowledge of God’s love for us. Also, God continues to call us to the “great and marvelous work” of restoration, to proclaim Jesus Christ, and to be people of peace, reconciliation, and healing of the spirit.

We are asked to participate in the process of discernment, joining with the leaders of the church, the priesthood, and the membership, eagerly inviting God’s Spirit to move among us as we attempt to “Listen to the Voice” (Doctrine and Covenants 162:1b). Today, Ash Wednesday, let us begin the Lenten journey and our preparation for World Conference.

Come, let us listen together.

Action
In a journal, or aloud with your family, share a time when you sensed God’s movement in your life. What changes did this experience bring about in your life?

Prayer
Ask for God’s help in discovering and discerning the sacredness of the church’s calling to be a prophetic people. Pray for an understanding of what changes are needed in your life to be able to claim this prophetic mission.