I think it is easy to get so caught up in discussions about how we should interpret Genesis that we can miss out on the beauty that is revealed to us in it.
If you’re interested in reading about how Christians should interpret Genesis, I have some resources at the end of the post. Today, I wanted to focus on a more personal reflection.
We are given two creation stories in Genesis (Genesis 1-2:3 and Genesis 2:4-8).
Obviously, it is clear that God is powerful from these stories, but He could’ve made an even bigger statement of power by having something along the lines of “God desired the creation of the world, so he commanded it be so, and in that moment, everything was brought into existence.” Instead, we see a different approach.
God creates one thing/category a day (or time period). When we think about someone taking the time to create something, it shows a certain level of care and intentionality. We read about amazing things being made out of nothingness. Just try to imagine that. Each day, something amazing is created, and God declares it good.
However, on the last day, mankind is created, and it is very good. God took his time creating a beautiful world for man to have dominion. Despite all the incredible things, we as human are the pinnacle of creation.
This intentional and paced approach can be likened to a handmade gift. There is so much time put into that gift, each stitch or nail or ingredient is added with love.
God is love itself. Our existence hinges on that love.
Praise God for making that love so clear from creation to Christ’s death on the cross to the present and everywhere in-between.
Other Resources
Catholic Stuff You Should Know did a great podcast on Creation and Evolution.
Catholic Answers shares perspectives from early Christians and Catholic beliefs surrounding Adam, Eve, and Evolution.
CERC shared an analysis on the first chapter of Genesis.
Catholic Straight Answers explained who Catholics understand the creation account.
