March 26, 2023

Suggested Readings:

Ezekiel 37:1-14

John 11:1-45

I am the resurrection and the life —John 11:25

Ezekiel was a priest who became God’s spokesperson during Israel’s exile in Babylon. Deported in 597 BC after the Babylonian invasion, Ezekiel was commissioned in 593 BC. His work continued until at least 571 BC.

Ezekiel was driven by the Spirit of the Lord to a valley of dry bones. The vision depicts a battlefield, representing dead Israel after the Babylonian invasion. The question to Ezekiel draws a tentative response (v. 3).

Ezekiel throws the question back. The question is not about afterlife or resurrection as much as it concerns whether it is possible to return to the world of the living. The question does not involve the resurrection of an individual but rather concerns itself with whether a dead people can become alive again. After responding to instructions (vv. 4-7), to prophesy to the bones the prophet observes corpses with no spirit (Hebrew: ruakh).

Ezekiel was then commanded to prophesy to the breath. The breath caused the corpses to come to life. The second command to the breath caused the corpses to live. This is reminiscent of the description of creation in Genesis 2:7 the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and the man became a living being.

Lazarus was dead. There is little room for debate on that matter as John records he had been in the tomb four days. It is a sign of Jesus’ courage and resolve that he would voluntarily return to Judea. When Jesus stated his intention to return to Judea the disciples reacted with surprise and fear, “Rabbi, the Jews were just now trying to stone you, and are you going there again?”  (John 11:18). But Jesus was determined in his decision to go to Bethany.

In the valley of dry bones Ezekiel was faced with the desolation of his people. In Bethany Jesus was faced with the death of his friend. In both instances the Spirit of God prevailed. The dry bones live. Lazarus received life. These two stories present us with the reality and power of God’s Spirit. It is the breath of God which gave life to the first human being, to dry bones, to a dead Lazarus. On this journey toward Jerusalem it is the Spirit of God which leads us on our way. It is the Spirit of God which compels us to travel this road of sacrifice and service.

As you read these two passages, I would like to suggest that you direct your personal reflections along two lines. First, note the number of times the spirit is referenced. Second, more personal, focus on the number of times today the spirit has directed your steps. It is a journey. A journey requires one step at a time.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father breathe the breath of your Spirit into my heart. My bones are dried up and my hope is lost. I feel completely estranged from you. I take this Lenten journey in hope that your breath of life will renew my spirit and restore my relationship with you. Amen.