Beginning

   "In the beginning....". For most of us these words are loaded with meaning.  They are loaded,  because we think we know what comes next.  We've developed a narrative around these words that is packed with explanations, theories, thoughts, and beliefs.
            Think back to a time of "beginning" in your life.  Maybe it was starting at a new school or starting a new job.  Perhaps it was getting married or having your first child.  You may think of beginning life in a new city or becoming part of a new church community.  We go through many beginnings.  There is an excitement and freshness to new things.  There is also some wonder and uncertainty.  God seems to love newness.  In Scripture, the words "In the beginning..." are followed by "God created."  The first thing we learn about the nature of God is that he is "creative." 
            If you are up on the current lingo, this is now a whole class of people in the work place and in our culture.  The "creatives" are shifting and changing how companies approach business and how they are connecting with people.  The funny thing is, we were designed by God from the beginning to be creatives.  Genesis tells us that "God created mankind in his own image..." (1:27).  This simply means we were created as an earthly reflection of the character of God.  We often get so hung up on what God created, and when, and how, that we forget the whole purpose as to why.  I often wear a shirt that has the phrase, "Live to create, not simply to consume."  We are being consumed by consumption.  I think we are asking the wrong questions.  The real question to ask is, "how are we bearing the image of God in our world?"  What are we creating?  What are we making new?  What are we breathing life into?
            May we be known as true image-bearers. May we be the bringers of new life into a broken and hurting world, realizing that our brokenness is only made new by the one who brings us life.  May we remember the words in Lamentations 3:22-34 that say:
                        Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
                        for his compassions never fail.
                        They are new every morning;
                        great is your faithfulness.
                        I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;
                        therefore I will wait for him."

Chris White