Many Christians I think misinterpret Lent and Ash Wednesday as a time to punish themselves for their sins. As a Christian minister, let me assure you that there is no need to punish yourself for your sins. Jesus paid that price on the cross. As Protestants we view Lent and Ash Wednesday through the eyes of the Resurrection. Instead of contemplating penitence during lent, we should be contemplating repentance. Listen to my talk on the celebration of Ash Wednesday.