I took a new prescription into the pharmacy earlier today. The nice lady who took the prescription had the marking of a black cross on her forehead. The pharmacist standing next to her, and also a good friend to Ann and Me, was also marked with the black cross. I complimented them on their faith, and in attending their church today. I felt a tinge of guilt that I do so little to outwardly show others of my faith. We Baptists have bent over backwards to avoid any such signs. In doing so I think we miss some important spiritual opportunities. I am not saying we need to go to our church today and have the ashes from last year's Palm Sunday mark our forehead. That does not seem to fit the Baptist way. We do, however, need to outwardly express our faith to others. Quietly bowing one's head at a lunch table can express our faith. A pin of spiritual design might fit some.I am not one for bumper stickers or T-shirts, but for many that is a method. I believe our Christian actions as we move about can say a lot, and sometimes it open doors to say more.
I greatly respect those who practice liturgical events in their Christian walk. Goodness knows this materialistic world needs to see and hear from Believers.
Now that I have written this, my head is throbbing. You see this morning I went to a doctor to show him a place on my forehead. He came in with something smoking like dry ice and proceeded to "burn" this spot on my forehead. He said,"It's somewhat like burning bacon with the sizzling sound and all." I haven't yet looked at the place. I have begun to wonder if it is "cross" shaped. If so I will be celebrating Ash Wednesday for several days. The good doctor did not have an ash marking, however, let me remind you that in the Old Testament men who repented of their sins places ashes on their bodies and wore sackcloth. Those ash markings many are wearing today are a reminder we all need to repent of our sins. Christians too!
