When did Jesus institute Ash Wednesday?

Ash Wednesday

This short skit is obviously designed to be done on Ash Wednesday or in preparation for an Ash Wednesday service.  It requires only 2 people for a short, crisp conversation.

Any stage, set, classroom, or fellowship hall will suffice.  The action is in the question and answer conversation.

Hey, when did Jesus institute Ash Wednesday?

He didn’t.  It came into practice over a millennium after Jesus ascended into heaven.

So, Jesus didn’t do this or even start it.  It must be a bad thing.  Maybe we shouldn’t do it.

He didn’t drive to worship services either. 
Jesus took an Uber?
No.  He walked.  Maybe you should start walking.

I don’t see anything wrong with driving to church.  I am more likely to go if I drive, especially on a cold or rainy day.

And you might be more likely to truly celebrate Easter—Resurrection Sunday—if you take these 40 days of Lent that begin on Ash Wednesday and give up something that will liberate someone else from their chains—whatever those may be.

So, it’s not just an empty ritual?

It is as empty or fulfilling as you make it.  God speaking through the prophet Isaiah chastised his people for going through the motions while fasting.

You mean like saying you love God but living like everyone else in the world?

Exactly.

Sometimes, we Christians need reminders not to just blend into the world.

Yes, we do.

Something visible and unique like a personal billboard.

If you say so.

I’m just trying to apply some modern thinking to help me remember that I should prepare to celebrate Easter.  Just some little reminder to get me back on track.

How about some ashes on your head?

That could itch.

How about just on your forehead?

That could work.

Stick around.  That’s just what we have in store for you!

The end.