January 3

Today's reading: Genesis 2:1-25

We'll continue with the theme of creation today. A lot of people naturally wonder why there seems to be two different creation accounts in Genesis. In order to understand what is going on in Genesis 1 and 2, we need to consider the Hebrew mindset and the Hebrew way of writing. In our western/Greek mindset, we tend to think and write in a linear or chronological manner. But the Hebrews tend to write in what we might call a more "circular" style. (As an aside, this is one of the keys to reading the last book of the Bible - Revelation - as well.)

Genesis 1 contains the overall description of the creation. In Genesis 2, the author (traditionally Moses) "circles back" and goes into more detail into one aspect of that creation - the creation of man. Since, as we said yesterday, man is the "crown jewel" of God's creation, this actually makes a lot of sense.

God's proclamation that it is not good for man to be alone has a lot of implications for our lives. God has created us to live in community with others - with Him, with our spouses and families, and with the body of Christ, the church. This is one reason that attending church in person, whenever possible, is so important.

Today is a good day for us to consider our relationships - with God and with others, especially our church family. What are yo doing to actively live in community with others?