Amidst the grief and sorrow of the pandemic, the mounting fears and agitation, there is beauty and there is joy and there is togetherness. Although none of us have had the exact same experience, the pandemic has been for all of us a shared experience, and we are reminded again and again that we are never alone. Ezekiel's vision of the valley of dry bones implies helplessness and hopelessness, but God's Spirit is within and they live. A new spirit and a new heart for those that believe. The death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus, the love of God promising abundant life and the presence of the spirit for believers, empowers us to bear witness to the good news, and we are encouraged and comforted. The light of Jesus is always present. Let us be brave enough to see the light of Jesus and brave enough to be a light for Jesus. Salvation for those that believe, to the glory of God.

Amen.

Based on the readings for the week: Ezekiel 37: 1-14; John 15: 26-27; 16: 4b-15.