Ash Wednesday begins the fasting season of Lent, inviting pilgrimage with Jesus on the road to Good Friday (that which was described on Transfiguration Sunday as his (and our) exodus – or way out of our human dilemma). A range of texts today carries this theme of penitence and reflection on the human condition.
Blow loud the trumpet
Warn of advancing danger
There is time to turn
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We like to pretend
We virtue signal goodness
Our acts betray us
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What can I offer?
A broken and contrite heart
You will not despise.
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Now is the right time
Reach out, accept your cleansing
It is freely given
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It looks so pious
The ash daubed on my forehead
What of the inside?
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Wondering Pilgrim 