The seasons of Advent and Christmas create a space in our lives for wonder and mystery that leads to anticipation and joy. They do this in light of the Gospels that describe both the Incarnation of God in Jesus and Mary’s willingness to bear the Son of God. How comfortable or welcoming we are to this mystery and wonder depends on our willingness to ponder the unknown.

The meaning of ashes on our foreheads takes us to the ground of our beings where God’s truth and mystery dwells. In awe, we stand gazing at our own lives and moments of wonder that help us to gaze at the cross with humbled and expanded hearts. From ashes to awe to the cross we stand in our truth before the crucified one and allow God to be God.