Ash Wednesday - Shine On!

One of my new favorite bands is NEEDTOBREATHE.  They are one of those special groups who use their lyrics and melodies to speak to the Faithful, but are also able to cross over into the world of so-called “secular” music.  More on that topic another day…

Their song “Shine On” may seem like an odd way to start Lent, given the somber words used when we receive the imposition of ashes today (“Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”)  However, this season is not just about a quiet preparation of our spirits for the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ.  It is about the light we hold deeply within each of us, a light that is meant to shine.

In Matthew, 6:16-18, Jesus instructs us to not allow what we are doing or experiencing to dim our light; “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” 

He also offers encouragement about our light at another point in Matthew 5:14-16; “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

The lyrics of “Shine On” are awesome from start to finish, but the parts that strike me most are the chorus and the bridge. You can watch/listen here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLyDOa40ueE )

The chorus…

“Shine on, shine on

And on to something new

It’s long and overdue

I will remember you

Shine on, shine on

And let the others see

You’ve got your victory

Will you remember me?”

…and the bridge…

“Can you see my hands are open?

I am waiting just ahead

And you think you need it all now

But you needed me instead”

This song, for me, is Jesus telling us to let our light shine.  We need His light to show us the way to Him and the victory over death that we will celebrate forty-seven long days from now.

So, my dear friends, Shine On!