This third weekend of Lent we encounter the “Woman at the well,” which is always read during Lent as a primary example of how a life changes at the invitation of Jesus.... The Gospel tells us she left her water jars, after her encounter with Jesus—as a sign of her changed life and went into the city to speak about Him. She became the best example of an evangelist. In a real sense we are all called to drop our water jars and “go into the city” to tell others what Jesus has done for us. Have you told anyone lately what the Lord has done for you? Lent is about getting more and more in touch with our own story---and the need we have for Him. He meets us at the place of our deepest need.

The Ashes we will have marked on our forehead is a reminder that we must die to ourselves in order to live for Him. We die to our sinful habits and pride. The ashes proclaim that we are sinners in need of God’s mercy.