Realigning Our Hearts

-Polly Erb

I know Ash Wednesday is sort of a Catholic thing. I don't know if anyone celebrates Lent, but it's not necessarily a bad thing. It's actually quite a good thing. It's a time to reflect and repent over the course of the time that we celebrate Easter. I was pondering that this week and praying and asking the Lord, “what are the things in my heart that maybe I need to reflect upon and repent of?”

And I was thinking of this scripture. It's in Ephesians 4. It says:

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs. That it may benefit those who listen and do not grieve. The Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ forgave you. Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love. Just as Christ loved us and gave himself for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

This morning, let’s reflect on His love for us and our love for one another and what that looks like.

And so we thank you, Jesus, for the privilege of being in a family, being able to gather, being able to worship. We pray that you'd receive our worship this morning and that you'd be with each and every one of us, with those who have needs that have come and hearts that may be troubled. Would you minister, strengthen, bless, and would you reveal to us those areas where you want to realign our hearts? Not that we grovel in sin, but that we don't lose connection with you and with one another. We thank you for that. In Jesus name, amen.