ASH WEDNESDAY : 14th February 2024

The nation of Israel had sinned and fallen away from the Lord. But it is never too late – Joel called on the nation to sound the trumpet and proclaim a solemn fast and repentance for the whole nation. It is important that other nations never ask, ‘Where is your God?’

The only way we reveal our God is through holy and faithful lives. Ambassadors do not represent themselves or voice their own opinions. They are spokespersons for the government that sent them.

Christians should be ambassadors for Christ, not pushing their own agenda or opinions, but speaking with the mind and the heart of Jesus Christ. Some people put on a great show of piety and prayer. They make sure that others see them and they enjoy the praise and approval that it brings. But does it come from the heart? Often it appeals only to the ego.

Jesus urges us to do these things without fanfare and in fact without even being aware of what we are doing. It should become second nature – we do not think about breathing or our heart beating. The goodness and piety that comes from us should flow from who and what we are.

Lord, may I always have the mind and heart of Christ.