God has given us a map (the Bible) for our lives’ journey on the path of life. God also provides us with signs along the way that tell us  exactly where we are, what’s around us, and which direction we are going: signs that point out the way; signs that tell us to steer clear of danger; signs that help us avoid the wrong way and to stay on the right path. On Ash Wednesday, we stop. We stop to get oriented, remember our destination and check our course. God calls us to stop sinning, and to recharge.