Ash Wednesday Sermon Handout

 

Ash Wednesday 2026

Isaiah 58:1-12 (p744)

Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 (p970)

 

·       True and false repentance

·       The heart and how it relates to our actions, which might be seen by God and others

 

(1) Repentance is a matter of the heart. Certain symbolic actions do not prove true repentance

 

Our heart / mind / soul / spirit / will / desires as the control centre of our selves

 

Religious observance could come from a true or false or mixed heart

 

(2) Repentance issues in actions which God sees. Certain actions go with true repentance

 

A true heart leads to true actions (truly if imperfectly)

 

e.g. social justice not just church services; good relationships with others (as far as it depends on us) not just talk of piety

 

(3) Repentance must not be a show to impress other people. Certain actions are best kept secret so as to promote true repentance

 

You can sometimes get the reward you are looking for!

 

Look for a reward from God alone by doing what only your Unseen Father who sees what is done in secret can see

 

(4) Repent and believe the good news of Jesus Christ and God will transform your heart and life, and will reward his own work in you

 

Make every effort… Oh, and it’s all God’s work!