Reflections on the Creation Genesis 1.1 – 1.13
Even before Christ was born, philosophers and scientists, such as Socrates, Plato and Aristotle tried to fathom out just how the universe came to be. Later, Ussher, Galileo, and Darwin took up the baton – some of their ‘discoveries’ are quite frankly awesome.
Some said it was a sudden explosion that created the Universe and others that God started the process and the Universe evolved over billions of years, but what is really important for us as Christians to remember, is that it is not the process of creation that matters, but the origin of creation – God did not need to create the Universe, he chose to create it. There was a sense of purpose and not a random accident or the result of chaos but a product of a deliberate act.
The simple statement that ‘God created the heavens and the earth’ is a challenging concept but in it we learn firstly about God:
• He is creative;
• As the Creator, he is distinct from his creation;
• He is eternal and in control of the world.
And secondly, we learn about ourselves:
• Since God chose to create us, we are valuable in his eyes;
• We are more important than the animals – in v.28 God said “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Regin over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground.”
The power and creativity of the creator emerge through each spoken command, “Let there be…”
• Light, Sky and Water, Land and Seas and vegetation – everything had a reassuring order, something that is comprehensible and purposeful – God gave form to the universe, he dispelled the darkness by creating light before creating the plants and animals!
Genesis 1.14 – 1.23
On the fourth day, God’s commands introduce the sun, moon, and stars, establishing the rhythms that govern day and night, seasons, and years. This orderly arrangement in the heavens not only illuminates the earth but also provides structure to time, marking out patterns for growth, rest, and celebration.
Additionally, it also brings beauty and order to the cosmos reminding us that the universe is not random but carefully ordered and sustained. Every aspect, from the vastness of the skies to the smallest seed or creature, has a role and purpose. God invites us all to marvel at this intricate tapestry and consider our place within it, reflecting on the meaning woven into the world around us.
On the fifth day, the waters and skies are filled with living creatures, from fish to birds, each bringing movement, sound, and variety to the world. This creative flourish speaks to the richness of life and encourages us to appreciate the interconnectedness of all beings, as well as the responsibility to care for the environments in which they thrive.
It shows a shift in the narrative of creation, as God breathes life into the previously tranquil and ordered world, introducing vibrant activity and diversity. The seas teem with schools of fish, while the skies come alive with the songs and fluttering wings of birds. Each species, playing a unique role in the ecosystem, reflecting the Creator’s intention for harmony and balance.
Although fish and birds inhabit separate realms, they are linked through the cycles of nature and the food chains that sustain them, a reminder that every being is part of a larger, delicately balanced system, where one species’ wellbeing often depends on another and by safeguarding the environments in which fish and birds live, we honour the Creator’s design.
Genesis – 1.24 – 2.3
“Let us make human beings in our image” This is the first time God uses the term “us” in his creation of the Universe. The ‘us’ could give reference to the Trinity – God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit – all of whom are God, or the plural wording could denote ’majesty’ as traditionally Kings use this form when speaking of themselves.
Job 33:4 says, “The spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life.” Whilst Psalm 104:30 “When you send forth your spirit, they are created; and you renew the face of the ground.” – both tell us that God’s Spirit was present in the Creation and from Colossians 1:16 “for in him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible. Whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers – all things have been created through him and for him.” This confirms to us that Christ, God’s Son, was at work in the Creation.
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The narrative concludes with God resting on the seventh day, it invites reflection on the importance of rest, not merely as a physical necessity, but as a spiritual discipline – a chance to pause, appreciate, and be grateful for the gift of existence and order.
This divine act is not simply about cessation from labour, but it sets a precedent for humans to follow – this rhythm of work and rest, woven into the fabric of creation itself, gives us permission to step back from daily tasks and responsibilities, allowing space for contemplation, renewal and moments of stillness and gratitude.
The Sabbath becomes an opportunity to reconnect with the Creator, to reflect on the wonders of the world, and to nurture relationships with others, cultivating a spirit of thankfulness for all that has been made.
Matthew 6: 25 – 34
Our reading from Matthew shows us Jesus speaking to the heart of human anxiety, urging us not to worry about any areas of our lives, but instead he invites us to consider the birds of the air and the lilies of the field, which neither toil nor spin, yet are cared for by God. It reassures us that our Heavenly Father knows our needs and calls us to seek first his kingdom and righteousness, with the promise that all these things will be given as well.
This teaching reminds us of our dependence on God’s providence and the futility of anxiety. In a world often dominated by busyness and concern for the material, Jesus’ words invite us into a posture of trust and surrender. By redirecting our focus from daily worries to the pursuit of God’s kingdom, we find true peace and contentment.
The passage gently challenges us to let go of striving and to embrace the present moment, confident in God’s faithful care – just as creation itself rests in his provision and order. In doing so, we discover a deeper sense of gratitude and security, rooted not in our own efforts, but in the unwavering love and generosity of the Creator.
Although separated by genre and time, both these passages from Genesis and Matthew reveal profound truths about God’s character and our relationship to Him. Genesis presents a God who provides order and abundance and lays the foundation for understanding God as the source of all life, Matthew reassures us that the same Creator continues to sustain and care for His creation, inviting us to live in trust and surrender, having the confidence that the Creator will provide for us daily, such is the faithful love of God.
AMEN