A poem written after reflecting on the Ash from the Ash Wednesday service yesterday – the ash that calls and draws us into the Lenten season.

Written 18-19 February, 2026.

The invitation of the ash comes round again –
extending far beyond rhythms of ritual by rote,
when words are said emotionless as feels expected.
It’s the time to move in close again, cap in hand,
exactly as and who we are, with successes and failures,
to the Father who wants to share life, just as we are.

The call of the ash comes round again –
to surrender all that we are, all that we want,
and all false ideas of who we think we should be.
It’s our opportunity to relinquish all control,
and humbly follow our brother and our friend,
Jesus who wants to share life, just as we are.

The challenge of the ash comes round again –
to release devil’s hold through varying temptations,
to trust once and for all that we’re strong enough in God.
It’s a time to engage, without fear, without hesitation,
and to let our souls and minds be guided, upheld and taught
by the Spirit who wants to share life, just as we are.

The commitment of the ash comes round again –
to acknowledge, accept and respond wholeheartedly
with invitation, call and challenge heard strong and clear.
It’s our time to rediscover not just how to serve more,
but to let ourselves be served so we too may grow and thrive,
in God, who wants to share life just as we are.