Ash Wednesday Prayer

Loving Savior, During this time of preparation and penance, May prayers, almsgiving, and fasting be for me A sacred pathway from ashes to Easter.
 

Please guide me as I start the Lenten journey anew— A journey toward repentance that You desire More than the donning of sackcloth or ashes.

Though cleansed in Baptism through the Holy Spirit, I seek forgiveness for the times I have failed, Reminded of sin by the smudge of ashes. To You, O Lord, I desire to come with my whole heart, Offering myself and every sacrifice I make, Leaving love, not ashes, at the altar.

Amen.