Commonly called Ash Wednesday
The Return of the Prodigal Son
Rembrandt
circa 1668
The State Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg, Russia
Public Domain

The Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, who hatest nothing that thou hast made, and dost forgive the sins of all them that are penitent: Create and make in us new and contrite hearts, that we worthily lamenting our sins, and acknowledging our wretchedness, may obtain of thee, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

All links to Scripture Lessons, except for Myles Coverdale's translation of the Psalms, are to BibleGateway without a version designated, so that the link should access the last version the user selected.

For The Epistle and Gospel Lessons

Joel 2:12-17Matthew 6:16-21

Commentary