Seeing the World Through God's Eyes
OPENING PRAYER:
Gracious God, open our eyes to see the world as You see it. Help us to recognize the spiritual needs around us and to respond with compassion and action. Amen.
"The hand of the Lord was on me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry. He asked me, 'Son of man, can these bones live?' I said, 'Sovereign Lord, you alone know.' Then he said to me, 'Prophesy to these bones and say to them, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord! This is what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life.'"
Ezekiel's vision of the valley of dry bones is a powerful image of restoration and hope. It symbolizes God's promise to revive and restore His people, even when all seems lost.
Ezekiel 37:1-5 (NIV)
REFLECT:
Pastor Elliott’s message this past weekend draws a parallel between Ezekiel's vision and the spiritual state of the world today. Just as Ezekiel saw a valley of dry bones, we are surrounded by spiritual desolation. The news often highlights the brokenness and despair in our world, but God calls us to see beyond the surface to the potential for renewal and life.
Ezekiel's response to God's question, "Can these bones live?" is one of faith and humility. He acknowledges that only God knows the answer, yet he is willing to be used as a vessel for God's message. This is a reminder that our role is to be obedient messengers, trusting in God's power to bring about transformation.
In our own lives, we may encounter situations that seem hopeless. Whether it's a strained relationship, a personal struggle, or a community in need, God invites us to speak life into these areas. By sharing His word and love, we participate in His work of restoration.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will do whatever it takes to proclaim the message of Jesus this week.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Father, thank You for the vision of hope and restoration You offer us. Help us to see the potential for life in every situation and to be faithful in sharing Your message. May we be instruments of Your peace and love. Amen.