Genesis 2:4-25
Reflect
Today’s passage is one of the most spectacular found in all of Scripture. Chew on this slowly as there is lots to digest in this beautiful account of creation. Essentially, we have two incredible scenes that are full of surprises.
In the first scene, Yahweh Elohim (LORD God) starts the sprinkler system that will bring life to all His creative splendor. With the majestic sounds of buds bursting open in the background, He breathes into some dust and man (adam) comes alive. Not only is humanity created, but ‘adam’ is also given a purpose (v15): to productively care for the creation. Not as punishment, but as delight.
Scene two – though adam is in the presence of Yahweh Elohim and is surrounded by all the created beings, adam does not have an equal. adam is alone. From adam is formed the equal, the helper, the Woman (issa) which causes creative poetry to emerge from adam (v23). In the English we miss what is obvious in Hebrew. For the first time, the word that had been translated for us as man (adam) becomes the word Man (is) when genders are created.
In Genesis 2 all of creation enjoys the tender covenantal relationship, which is rooted in mutuality. There is no superiority, only relationships that trust and advocate for one another.
Apply
How are you actively delighting in caring for creation? What is your role in advocating for those of the other gender?
Pastor Dan
Pray
- Pray for our Prime Minister and Premier, Mayor Sohi, your MP, your MLA, and any other government officials God brings to your mind.
- Pray for all our small group leaders.