5TH SUNDAY OF LENT 22ND MARCH 2026

The text reflects on three biblical passages that focus on the theme of life, resurrection, and the work of God’s Spirit.

The prophecy of Ezekiel is described as taking place during one of the darkest periods in Israel’s history, when the people were exiled in Babylon and had lost hope. In his famous vision of the valley of dry bones, God commands the prophet to breathe upon the bones. In Hebrew, the same word means both breath and Spirit, symbolizing the life-giving power of God. When Ezekiel breathes, the bones come together, are covered with flesh, and rise as a vast army. The immediate meaning of this vision is the restoration of Israel as a nation, returning from exile to new life in the Promised Land. However, the Christian tradition has long understood the prophecy to have a deeper meaning: it foreshadows the resurrection of individuals through the Spirit of God. As Christians approach the celebration of Christ’s resurrection at Easter, this passage reminds believers of their own future resurrection.

The second reading reflects on the teaching of, especially in Romans chapter 8. Paul explains salvation through the self-sacrifice of Jesus and how believers share in Christ’s death and resurrection through baptism. The Spirit of Christ now lives within believers, guiding and transforming them. While their bodies are not yet fully transformed, the Spirit already empowers them to live according to God’s will. Later letters, such as and, emphasize that believers are already spiritually raised with Christ, awaiting the full revelation of this life in glory. The Spirit, also called the Paraclete, leads believers into truth and strengthens them for God’s work.

Finally, the Gospel story of shows Jesus giving life to his friend. Unlike the final resurrection, Lazarus returns to normal earthly life and will die again. Yet this miracle is the greatest of Jesus’ signs, revealing both his divine power to give life and his deep human compassion, shown when he weeps for his friend and shares in human sorrow.                                           

  Fr. Jerome Otitoyomi Dukiya C.S.Sp