Jesus is that person. Jesus is the human face of God, who is always ready to forgive what we have been, to see the possibility in us, and to challenge us to become who we really are. Lent is that journey. It is a journey to places where we can grow deeper in our relationship with God, our neighbors and ourselves. This week we begin that journey of deepening and growth when we receive the outward sign of ashes.
Sin is the refusal to grow, to love, to be loved.
Lent is a season to be changed. But, for most people most of the time, change comes about through disciplined practice. The disciplines are the guides, the railings, and the rules that we reach for to help us find our way home. The disciplines have helped a lot of sinners find their way home. They ll help us as well, if we will reach out for them.