ASH WEDNESDAY

Yesterday was Ash Wednesday and it seemed like (though there were some who didn't have a cross on their forehead) the WORLD had a cross on their forehead. Now to me, this is so foreign (not Mexico the cross thing). I grew up in a Christian home and I don't ever remember seeing this til arriving here in Leon...not even in Toluca do I remember it.

I have talked about this event in years past and have managed to get myself in trouble on more than one occasion. One time I truly offended someone and more recently someone used my article to manipulate others. For those who were personally or religiously offended, I sincerely apologize. My intension was never to offend. When I reread those articles from a year ago, I clearly understood how someone could take offense to them.

What's my point?! Though I don't mean to hurt anyone's feelings, the truth is still the truth. Ash Wednesday continues to be a time when many, at least in Leon, "clean the outside of the glass" for the "holiday". "Who are you to judge?" "You can't see their heart?" No, but I can SEE the guy getting beers from the fridge at the store with a cross on his head. I can HEAR people cursing enough to embarass "a sailor". I truly wish the cross, even when it's stamped (too many people not enough ashes), would bring people back to the cross, but unfortunately just like "Cristo El Rey" (Christ the king statue) it has become another idol and has been brought down to the level of a good luck charm!

Pray for Mexico!!! There are many who are being deceived by Satan. Many who truly have a heart for God and desire to please Him. Many who want that relationship, but have been trampled under tradition and heritage. Pray His grace will rain down on this country and that many more souls can find true salvation in the cross! Pray we can share His message from His word with the people! Pray we will be bold when need be, but always full of love!