The Beginning

Before the world takes shape, Genesis opens with God creating the heavens and the earth. Light breaks into the darkness. The sky, dry land, seas, plants, sun, moon, and stars each find their place. The waters and skies fill with life, and animals move across the land.

Human beings are made in God’s image and entrusted with caring for the living world. The account calls creation good, and finally very good. The seventh day brings rest. Genesis then draws us closer to the garden, where the man is placed to work and keep it, and the woman is made as a fitting companion. Life begins as a gift and a responsibility.