Homily for Ash Wednesday

Last week's Ash Wednesday homily, "The Sacrifices of God," focused on two things: 1) the notion of giving things up for Lent (sacrificing) and 2) the sacrifices that Psalm 51 proclaims and sets before. While we may certainly "give something up" for Lent (chocolate cake, Starbucks runs, or even Facebook!), and while that may certainly be fine outward training, Psalm 51 guides us to sacrifice our sins for Lent. Yes, you read that correctly! "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise" (Psalm 51:17). You see, when we sacrifice our sins--that is, bring them out into the open in Confession--then we joyously receive the Lord's genuine sacrifice for us--His blood-bought Absolution.

To listen to "The Sacrifices of God," click here and download the audio file.