40 days of prayer- day 1

40 Days of Prayer - Day 1

Ash Wednesday: Remembering Our Weakness Author: Pastor Christen Piatt

Scripture: Genesis 3:19 (NLT)"By the sweat of your brow will you have food to eat until you return to the ground from which you were made. For you were made from dust, and to dust you will return."

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a season of reflection, repentance, and renewal. It is a solemn reminder of our mortality and our deep need for God’s grace. The ashes placed on our foreheads symbolize both our human weakness and the call to turn our hearts fully to the Lord.

This day invites us to pause and consider the fragility of life. In a world that constantly urges us to chase success, comfort, and self-sufficiency, Ash Wednesday gently reminds us: we are dust. Our days are numbered, and our strength is fleeting. Yet, even in our weakness, God’s mercy remains steadfast.

As we enter this sacred season of Lent, we are invited to practice fasting—not as an empty ritual, but as a way to draw closer to God. Fasting is more than giving up food; it is an intentional choice to set aside something that competes for our attention and devotion. It may be a certain food, a habit, social media, or anything that distracts us from our relationship with God. The purpose of fasting is not deprivation but transformation—it creates space for God, allowing Him to fill what we so often try to satisfy with lesser things.

We are reminded of Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness, where He fasted and was tempted by the devil. In that time of physical weakness, He leaned on God for strength. His fasting was not just about abstaining from food—it was about deepening His dependence on the Father. It strengthened Him to overcome temptation and stand firm against evil.

As you receive or reflect on the ashes today, take a moment to ask yourself: What is keeping me from fully surrendering to God? What can I set aside during this season to draw nearer to Him? Lent is not about perfection but about intentionally making room for the presence of Christ in our lives.

As you pray today, ask God what He would have you fast or give up between now and Easter. Let your fasting be an offering, a reminder of your reliance on Him, and an opportunity for spiritual renewal.

Prayer:

Lord, I acknowledge my weakness and dependence on You. Teach me to number my days and to walk in Your wisdom. As I enter this season of Lent, help me to choose something to fast—not out of obligation, but as a way to seek You more deeply. Let my fasting remind me of my need for You and draw me closer to Your presence. May this be a time of renewal and transformation in my heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.