Eric Reece
Ash Wednesday and Valentine’s Day are on the same day this year.
This is very unusual and seemed a bit odd to me. I tried to remember when this had happened before.
I racked my old brain and could not recall.
The reason is the last time this occurred was in 1945. Easter is early this year, March 31. Easter can be any day between March 22 – April 25. In the West, Easter occurs the first Sunday after the first full moon that occurs after the vernal equinox.
This year’s early Easter date created a mishmash of the day for ashes and the day for roses.
Ash Wednesday is the day after Mardi Gras, Fat Tuesday. It is the beginning of the Christian 40-day season of Lent. It is a day of penance and fasting as we prepare for a 40-day journey of self-examination.
On this day, we contemplate how we can be reconciled to God and neighbor through the grace of Jesus Christ.
Down through centuries, Christians have received a cross on their forehead of ashes made from palms as an invitation to receive God’s forgiveness. The mark was a reminder they belonged to and would one day return to God.
A new tradition on Ash Wednesday is “Ashes on the Go.” This is where the priest or the minister selects a public place to impart the ashes. It could be a coffee shop, street corners or parking lot.
As people pass by, the invitation for Lenten discipleship is given and the ashes are offered with the words, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” This is a way to connect with people who may have lost connection with church or never had an invitation to participate in a time of self examination with God.
St. Valentine’s Day is always Feb. 14, because this is the day he was martyred for his faith. It is named after the saint who performed wedding ceremonies for Christian couples when it was outlawed by the Roman Emperor. It is a day to show your love and devotion to the special person in your life. Modern times have brought the tradition of Valentine’s cards, chocolates, flowers, especially red roses and singing telegrams.
Going out to eat for Valentine’s day is one way to celebrate. Some restaurants have Valentine’s Day specials for couples.
This Valentine’s Day, I don’t recommend suggesting fasting in sackcloth and ashes to your significant other.
After further consideration, it is right for a day that symbolizes love and a day to draw closer to God and neighbor to be combined.
It is because of the great love God revealed in the passion of Christ that we can act on the words of faith, “Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God” (1 John 4:7).
I guess it is an advantage for men to have Ash Wednesday after Valentine’s Day. If you forget the chocolates and roses, you can always beg for forgiveness. Happy Ash Valentine Day.
Eric Reece is the faith columnist for The Graham Star. He is pastor of Robbinsville United Methodist Church and can be reached via email, ereece@wnccumc.net.