The 40 Day Marketing Campaign

~~~Joel 2: 12-18 ~~~ Psalm 51 ~~~ 2Cor. 5: 20-6:2 ~~~ Matt. 6: 1-6, 16-18 ~~~

"Between the porch and the altar let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep..."

Today begins Christianity's intense marketing campaign held every year at this time. This campaign will only last for 40 days...it is called Lent. In order to let the world know you are participating in and supportive of this annual event we ask that you come forward to be marked with ashes. This marking of the cross with ashes high upon your forehead is visible for all to view. In fact this is a temporary branding signifying that you willingly agree to share.

 Just for today as we begin this time together we ask you to tell the whole world by this action of being marked with the cross...the time is now.
The permanent branding for a Christian is both the crucifix and the crown of thorns. They are, each one, quickly identified with our salvation.

In order to believe in this salvation the prophet Joel offers us a few guidelines.
"...return to me with your whole heart, with fasting, and weeping, and mourning; Rend your hearts, not your garments, and return to the Lord, your God."

The anointed ministers are urged to offer additional prayers an our behalf even to the point of weeping. Intervening before God for us, each of us, not only those in most need due to grave sin, but me and you.

The prophet taps into our human emotions of compassion for our sisters and brothers. Weeping implies a deeper emotional content; it is not only reciting prayers.

The salvation marketing campaign continues with Psalm 51.
"...wipe out my offense...wash me from guilt...cleanse me...
A clean heart create for me, O God,
and a steadfast spirit renew within me."
And finally, "...a willing spirit sustain in me."

A marketing campaign is only successful if people respond. We, the people, have to take some action. That is what a good campaign does, it moves people to take action. Effective marketing campaigns make the listener or observer believe he or she cannot live without the intended product.

With that in mind we are given Paul's second letter to the Corinthians, "We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God." Take action. Do not wait. "...now is a very acceptable time...now is the day of salvation."
Here we are poked with some high pressure sales tactics. You know the drill...this offer is only good until...act before midnight...the price is increasing tomorrow...this offer will never again be made.

The church chose one more person to present the salvation message today and that is with the gospel of Mark. Mark says, 'oh and by the way if you choose to accept this message for your salvation' there is more you need to know. We know that if you accept and agree to take action on your own behalf, it will require time spent in prayer and fasting.

This wonder of salvation comes with a few strings attached...and those would be sacrifices. No one can really make sacrifices in your place. You are the one who must your cross.

Prayer is the most important way to draw strength. Through the power of prayer you are able to make  the necessary sacrifices. Through the power of prayer you can carry your cross.

"But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your father in secret."

While the priests and ministers are on the porch praying and weeping for us we in turn must go to our inner room, behind closed doors to pray. During these next 40 days sequester yourself away for personal prayer and fasting. Do this in secret without boasting about how you have bought in to this life saving marketing campaign. Let your prayers rise like incense to the father in heaven.

This is your life.
This is your salvation.
The time really is now.
The crucifix logo is for you.

Pray to your father in heaven like you have never prayed before; start today. Do not wait!

Let the burned ashes of today create your clean heart of tomorow.

Original photo taken of incense rising at the foot of the cross.

This kaleidoscope image to me reflects leaving the colorful busy outside world;

entering into the inner prayer room.

May this season of Lent bring you ever closer to Our Lord.

May your truly rise like incense upward to the Father.