Commonly Human

One of the symbolic acts on Ash Wednesday is to receive the mark of the cross on our foreheads in the form of ashes. As part of the beginning of the lead up to Easter, this simple act reminds us of our common humanity and the need for forgiveness. We are not just receiving a mark of ashes to remind us of our mortality. Its shape in the form of the cross reminds each one of us of God’s grace that is freely given. As we receive and see the cross on the forehead of another we are recognising our common humanity. In this season of Lent we are called to restore and refresh our relationships with each other and with God.