Shawn Vollmerhausen

Ash Wednesday "marked, But Not For Show"

Contributed on Mar 13, 2026

Explores the tension between the visible mark of ashes and Jesus’ call to a hidden, sincere faith. The sermon emphasizes the God who ‘sees in secret,’ the difference between outward signs and inward renewal, and the invitation Lent offers to return to God with honesty.

Tonight we gather at the doorway of Lent, a season that invites us to slow down, to look inward, and to return to God with honesty. Ash Wednesday is unlike any other night in the Christian year. It is quiet, reflective, and strangely beautiful. We come forward to receive ashes on our foreheads, a ...read more

Scripture: Matthew 6:1-6, Matthew 6:16-21, Isaiah 58:1-12

Tags: Hypocrisy, Lent, Ash Wednesday, Reverent