Saturday's message doesn't have to end on Saturday. This 5-day plan gives you an easy way to keep reflecting throughout the week with a daily reading, prayer prompt, and practical step to live it out.

Ashes of Renewal
Mike Schoettle 2/21/2026

Day 1: Turning with All Your Heart

Scripture Reading: Joel 2:12-17

Reflection Question: What areas of my life need genuine, heart-level repentance rather than just outward religious activity?

Prayer Focus: Ask God to reveal any "white-washed tomb" tendencies—places where your external actions don't match your internal devotion.

Action Item: Spend 10 minutes in silence, asking the Holy Spirit to search your heart. Write down one specific area where you need to "tear your heart" and turn back to God with sincerity.

Day 2: From Mourning to Hope

Scripture Reading: Isaiah 61:1-3; Hosea 6:1-3

Reflection Question: Where do I need God to exchange my "ashes for beauty" right now?

Prayer Focus: Thank Jesus for fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy—that He came to heal the brokenhearted and comfort those who mourn.

Action Item: Identify one area of grief, disappointment, or despair in your life. Write a prayer surrendering it to God and asking Him to replace it with His hope and beauty.

Day 3: The God Who Relents

Scripture Reading: Joel 2:13; Jonah 3:1-10

Reflection Question: Do I truly believe God is "gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in faithful love"?

Prayer Focus: Meditate on God's character—His patience, mercy, and willingness to forgive when we genuinely repent.

Action Item: Fast from one meal today. Use that time to pray and reflect on God's compassion toward you. Consider how Nineveh's repentance moved God's heart.

Day 4: The Promise of the Spirit

Scripture Reading: Joel 2:28-32; Acts 2:1-21

Reflection Question: How am I actively depending on the Holy Spirit's power in my daily life?

Prayer Focus: Ask God to pour out His Spirit afresh on you—for renewed vision, prophetic insight, and boldness to proclaim the gospel.

Action Item: Identify one way you've been relying on your own strength rather than the Spirit's power. Commit to pray specifically about this area each morning this week.

Day 5: Living as Righteous Trees

Scripture Reading: Isaiah 61:3; Psalm 1:1-3

Reflection Question: Am I planted deeply enough in God's Word and presence to bear fruit that glorifies Him?

Prayer Focus: Thank God for calling you a "righteous tree, planted by the Lord to glorify Him." Ask Him to deepen your roots.

Action Item: Choose one spiritual discipline to practice consistently through the Lenten season (Scripture reading, prayer, fasting, solitude, service). Write it down and share it with a trusted friend for accountability.

Every Sunday: Review your three names and pray for them

Every Week: Have at least one meaningful interaction with each person

Every Month: Look for an opportunity to invite one of them to church or a spiritual conversation

Remember: You're not responsible for outcomes—just obedience. Plant, Invite, Share, Love. God handles the growth.

"How can they hear without a proclaimer? And how can they preach unless they are sent?"

- Romans 10:14-15

Don't Forget...