The mortals return, as dust and ash.

As dust, as mortals,
we move closer 
to our graves each day.

Lent: this season summons us
to deeper holiness
with an airy invitation:
a breeze blending 
the chaos of distraction,
disappointment, despair 
with the brightness 
of hope, love, faith.
Repent, Repent,
Repent, Repent.

We are worthy, God's children
and we are sinners,
confronting our shame, 
our sorrow, longings —
our neediness.
We need mercy, 
we need help.
We need grace. 
We need God.

And so we return to God 
with what we offer,
with what we sacrifice,
with heartfelt prayers.

God of Mercy, free us.
God of Love, open us.
Help us, God of Dust, 
to abandon our selves,
little by little, 
and embrace the cross — You —
and the Truth of change.
Increase our faith 
that after death
comes new life.

And receive us now, 
muttering "Yes, 
I'll repent,
I'll change my ways"
for I am dust
and I accept
ash creased
into my brow today. 

As dust, as mortals,
we move closer 
to our graves each day.