In this first creation account, we have a systematic ordering of the universe, each day building upon the one before. The final creative act in this account is found in verse 26: “Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness.” Every human bears the image of God and is tasked with the stewardship and care of God’s unfolding, ongoing creation.
This story is not meant to be read as a scientific textbook telling how the universe was created. Instead, it tells us the “who” and “what” of creation. God created order out of chaos simply by breathing and speaking life into being. Blessing is pronounced over each stage, as God calls it good. In many ways, it feels as if we have lapsed back into chaos. What if, instead of trying to control and contain the chaos, keeping it as far from ourselves and the people we love, we recognize it as part of the fabric of God’s story?
What would it look like to release those things we can’t really control anyway and ask God to bring something good from it? What would it look like to be a good steward of that which you can control?
Offer a prayer of praise for the beauty of creation, nature and humankind alike.