Today is the first day in the season of Lent, a time of repentance, reflection and renewal. This year I am following the Lenten Photo A Day practice or discipline from RethinkChurch as a way of entering into Lent more fully.

Today I gathered some of the things that I will need for the Ash Wednesday service this evening. The first little pinch was realizing that I didn’t have everything, that there were some things missing, some things that others were bringing. I wanted a picture that included all the symbols of this day…

Then, as I pondered what was on the table, I was reminded of how this reflects our lives and our faith lives. We have our gifts, the things we bring to create the beloved community, which is church at its finest. Others bring what they have and it is the coming together that we experience the wonder of the sacred made real.

Ashes to remind us of our humanity, a towel with which to be wiped clean, prayer or singing bowl to call us to attention. Others will bring the rest of what is needed: bread, wine, a Bible and a branch. As we gather, we will be reminded that we are mortal and together, we will be reminded that we are redeemed.