I know today’s ashes are about reflection and repentance, but I have been weary in these recent days and working hard to shift my focus back to my word for 2021: promise.

Every promise spoken over me.

Every promise spoken into my heart.

All of God’s promises.

Promises that I am certain will come to pass, even though it doesn’t feel like it today.

And so although it’s not a Lenten message, today I am thankful for the visual reminder of Isaiah 61:3 that Audrey and Ella and I are wearing on our foreheads – God creates beauty from ashes.