The Spirit Brings Life
This passage is such a reminder of the difference between the physical body and the Spirit. We live in a world that is ravaged by wars, natural disasters, sickness, a global pandemic, and the looming threat of climate change. Stress and anxiety surround the day to day lives of many. Growing up, witnessing a family members’ life-threatening illness made death feel like an ever-present shadow that was never too far away.
This passage is a strong reminder of the difference between the physical versus the spiritual. When faced with a loved-one’s illness, it can feel as if we are desperate to hold onto the physical body. It is easy to wonder where God is in these moments. This scripture reminds us that, by letting our body be filled with the Spirit and filled with Christ, we can seek comfort in knowing that the Spirit brings life. The Spirit brings light in the midst of darkness.
Listening to or reading the news can easily make one feel that our world is filled with darkness. First, we need to let our mind be governed by the spirit, as the scripture tells us. We must, however, not stop there! We must remember that we are called to shine God’s light and spread the Spirit to help others, whether that is through making conscious efforts to protect our environment, through donation to organizations helping those in need, or looking out for our neighbours. God promises us life, but it is up to us to allow the spirit to fill us and to work through us.
Emily Logan