Lent 5 – Breath in the Bones, Life in the Waiting

Breath in the Bones, Life in the Waiting

A short reflection based on Ezekiel 37:1-14 and John 11:1-45

Sometimes life feels like a valley of dry bones – hopeless, lifeless, long past the point of fixing. That’s where we meet Ezekiel. He’s surrounded by the remains of a people who feel abandoned, cut off, forgotten. Yet into that dry valley, God sends breath – ruach – the same Spirit that moved at creation. Step by step, life is restored. Bones join. Flesh returns. Then, breath fills them. It’s not instant. It’s not flashy. But it’s real.

In John’s Gospel, we see another kind of death and personal grief. Jesus’ friend Lazarus dies, and his sisters are devastated. Jesus shows up late, and they’re honest about their hurt: “If you had been here…” But Jesus doesn’t explain himself. He weeps. Then he calls Lazarus out of the tomb. It’s a miracle, yes – but it’s also a warning: new life changes things. It disrupts. It costs.

Both stories remind us: God does not give up on what looks dead. Whether it’s a church, a dream, a relationship, or a community – we serve a God who speaks life where we see only bones. Resurrection is not always quick, but it is coming.

God restores in stages: Even when things feel lifeless, restoration can begin slowly. Be patient with the process.

Resurrection has purpose: New life isn’t just for comfort; it calls us to serve, heal, and hope for others.

Ngā mihi
Philip

p.s. Worship leaders: You can buy a complete Order of Service and Sermon based on these readings here:  https://philipgarsidebooks.com/products/worship-at-hand-lent-5-22-march-2026