Emphasis Preaching Journal

Paul ends this passage by saying that through possessing nothing, we have in fact gained everything. This is a powerful theme with which to begin our Lenten journey, for indeed, the paradox of the gospel reminds us that by losing all, we gain everything. We accept the ashes of Lent as a symbol of our willingness to strip our souls bare before God, because those are the times we are able to be open to the saving power God offers. We often forget what incredible courage this takes. It is completely unnatural for a fleeing criminal to turn willingly toward a pursuing police officer.