Significance Of Ash Wednesday To Nation Building

SIGNIFICANCE OF ASH WEDNESDAY TO NATION BUILDING

Today is Ash – Wednesday. It is remarkably the first Christian event or festival in each New Year apart from the Christian event of Sunday which is arguably the oldest Christian event or festival. Ash – Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lent Season that is observed by many Christians Globally notably the Catholic faithful, Anglicans and the Methodist. It commemorates the beginning of the 40days and 40 nights fasting and prayer that was observed by the good Lord Christ Jesus before He embarked on his evangelistic mission of preaching, healing and deliverance. It dates back to the early days of Christianity. The day is referred to as Ash because Ash connotes penitence, remorse, frailty and a willingness to submit to the power and authority of the Almighty God. Ash – Wednesday on the Christian calendar is also significant because it becomes a TIMELINE in determining the celebration and the observation of other Christian festivals or events like Easter, Ascension Day and Pentecost day .40 days after today, will be the Christian festival of Easter, thus it prepares the Christian community to its religious observances that cumulate into Easter. Many churches during this Lent period organize retreats, prayer meetings, fasting, visit to orphanages, prisons and hospitals. During this season many Christians apply themselves to reading of scripture, daily devotions both at home and in institutions and a deepening awareness of fellowship. This period is also significant in the sense that it marks the period of forgiveness and reconciliation which are vital tools that help in nation-building.

Many Christians use this occasion to live at peace and harmony with their neighbours, workmates, school mates and opposing party followers. The season affords adherents to observe the SSQ technique, slow to speak, slow to anger, and quick to hear which are values that are needed for nation-building especially in a society like ours which is polarized in many ways thus the observation of this Lent season will help foster love, forgiveness and unity. The season will provide enough opportunities for adherents to awaken their minds to the importance of time-consciousness which is a key element to nation-building. In our various workplaces and institutions, growth and development should be seen during this season and beyond. Corrupt practices that seem to be hampering nation-building will be curtailed by adherents in this season of Lent through the various religious retreats, conferences and prayer meetings. A deepening dedication to work and the building of good bridges will go a long way in nation-building. All sectors of the economy, from industry, commerce, the arms of government, and trade institutions that are made up of Christians who will observe this season of Lent with prayer, fasting, and teachings will be more enlightened and will contribute more effectively in promoting the growth and success of their trade or business and help in nation-building. As a people, Ash- Wednesday and its attendant Lent period this year is significant because it will prepare us to go about our election campaigns in an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity due to the lessons and benefits that we would derive spiritually, emotionally and physically as adherents to this season of Lent. May this season be a refreshing time for all Christians and may we be filled with much zeal, enthusiasm, sacrifice and commitment to building our nation and making Her great and strong.

BY: REVEREND MAJOR YAW BOATENG, METHODIST CHURCH, KUMASI DIOCESE.