26 Feb 2020. Ash Wednesday. Cycle A-2020. Jl 2:12-18 + 2Cor 5:20–6:2 + Mt 6:1-6, 16-18

Even now, says the Lord, return to me with your whole heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. … He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love, and relenting in punishment (Jl 2:12-13; cf. Ex 32:13-14).

We offend,
God threatens.
We deafen,
God condemns.
We repent,
God hearkens.
We resolve,
God absolves. 
We amend,
God relents. 
VSS.
Do not say, “His mercy is great;
My many sins He will forgive.”
For mercy and anger alike are with Him;
His wrath comes to rest on the wicked.
Do not delay turning back to the Lord,
Do not put it off day after day.
For suddenly his wrath will come forth;
At the time of vengeance, you will perish.
(Sir 5:6-7).
“O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, 
and I detest all my sins, 
because I dread the loss of heaven, and the pains of hell; 
but most of all because I have offended Thee, my God, 
who are all good and deserving of all my love. 
I firmly resolve with the help of Thy grace, 
to confess my sins, to do penance, and to amend my life. Amen.” 
(Act of Contrition)