By Tyler Marz, Formation Ministries specialist
Then he said to me, “Prophesy to the breath, prophesy, mortal, and say to the breath: Thus says the Lord GOD: Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live.” I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood on their feet, a vast multitude.
Life has a way of surprising us, especially in times of uncertainty. The rhythms we take for granted—like our breath—suddenly become more meaningful when we face the unknown.
During the pandemic, like many, my life changed. The catering company I worked with for many years had shut down, and everyone was out of work for the foreseeable future. We didn’t know if it would be weeks, months, or years before we returned. I entered this new phase in my life with trepidation and wonder as I had no idea what the future might hold for me—or the world.
To pass the time I went on walks in my neighborhood and focused on my studies for the Master of Religion program at Graceland University. In many ways this was a welcomed reprieve from a rewarding but stressful career. I knew I eventually wanted to change careers, but the pandemic left that possibility unknown.
During this time, I was also faithfully questioning, discerning, and listening for a sense of call and direction in my life. On my daily walks, breathing in the fresh air, and in my studies, I allowed God to breathe hope and companionship into my life during this time of uncertainty.
Exactly one year later I was offered a position as an expansion minister for the church in Utah. Much like God breathing life into the dry bones mentioned in Ezekiel, God breathed new life into me. It was as if God filled my sails with a gust of wind to get my boat in motion again. I continued my faithful response to that breath of wind by saying yes and sailing down this new career path.
What once seemed like an uncertain pause became an invitation to trust, listen, and breathe deeply of divine hope. Just as the wind fills the sails of a boat, God’s breath filled my spirit, leading me to a new path. In moments of doubt or struggle, I am reminded that even in stillness, God is always near, breathing life into our hearts, and guiding us toward the future with love and grace.
Prayer Phrase
“Happy are those who observe justice” (Psalm 106:3).
Healing and Reconciliation
Gather a small mound of stones. Meditate on the stones as symbols of differences and destructive acts that continue to separate and wound the human family. Name and anoint each “stone wound” with a drop of water or scented oil. Offer them to God in a prayer for healing and reconciliation.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.