Genesis Chapter 5

GENESIS 

CHAPTER 

5

1. This is the list of the descendants of Adam. When God created humankind, he made them in the likeness of God. 2 Male and female he created them, and he blessed them and named them " Humankind" when they were created.

(Genesis chapter 5 verses 1 and 2)

In his introduction to chapter 5 of the author of the book of Genesis reminds us of what we have meditated on in the previous chapters going back to chapter 1 of the book of Genesis.  In the book or novel of our life God also reminds us of those special moments when he revealed himself to us either symbolically or even personally as in my experience of God by means of a dream that changed my life and perception of God forever.

Verses one to two refer us back to our origins to our beginning when God created us in His form and blessed us and commanded us to increase and take control of the earth and reap its resources without destroying it completely. This is a very important time in our lives as Christians which we celebrate during many occasions in the life of the Church especially at Christmas and Easter where the account of creation is reflected on as a community and body of Jesus Christ Son of God and God.

3. When Adam had lived one hundred thirty years, he became the father of a son in his likeness, according to his image, and named him Seth. 4 The days of Adam after he became the father of Seth were eight hundred years; and he had other sons and daughters. 5 Thus all the days that Adam lived were nine hundred thirty years; and he died.

(Genesis chapter 5 verses 3 to 5)

In order to reflect on the fifth chapter of the book of Genesis I will be grouping particular verses together in order to analyze a pattern that is emerging throughout the chapter. What is of particular interest is the lifespan of the mentioned characters which differs from character to character. In order to make this pattern more obvious I will be selecting the characters and the number of days lived and the age at the time of death as in the following exhibit.

6. When Seth had lived one hundred five years, he became the father of Enosh. 7 Seth lived after the birth of Enosh eight hundred seven years, and had other sons and daughters. 8 Thus all the days of Seth were nine hundred twelve years; and he died.

(Genesis chapter 5 verses 6 to 8)

On analyzing verses 6 to 8 we can observe that when comparing Adam to Seth in years lived there is a difference of 18 years. This shows that from the time of Adam the first human there is a decrease in life span. This reflects the fact that as evil through Adam's offspring contaminated the earth the lifespan on earth started decreasing, thus reflecting the increase of sin on earth.

9.  When Enosh had lived ninety years he became the father of Kenan. 10 Enosh lived after the birth of Kenan eight hundred fifteen years, and had other sons and daughters. 11. Thus all the days of Enosh were nine hundred five years; and he died.

(Genesis chapter 5 verses 9 to 11)


On observing the amount of days lived by Enosh he ranks third in number of years. When compared to Seth Enosh lived seven years less. Thus we can observe that the gap is not so big when compared to that between Adam and Seth that is 18 years.


12. When Kenan had lived seventy years he became the father of Mahalalel. 13 Kenan lived after the birth of Mahalalel eight hundred and forty years and had other sons and daughters. 14 Thus all the days of Kenan were nine hundred and ten years and he died.

(Genesis chapter 5 verses 12 to 14)


On reflecting as declared by God after the fall of the first human beings, all humans were subject to physical and spiritual death. Therefore in order to make a special emphasis the biblical author added the mentioned clause that of the death of each of the mentioned character.

15. When Mahalel had lived sixty-five years, he became the father of Jared. 16 Mahalalel lived after the the birth of Jared eight hundred thirty years, and had other sons and daughters. 17 Thus all the days of Mahalalel were eight hundred ninety-five years; and he died.

(Genesis chapter 5 verses 15 to 17)

On comparing the years that Mahalalel lived with that of Kenan, that was 910 years, the difference between them is 15 years, which in itself is very big especially when compared to the difference between that of the other referred to descendants of Adam. This shows a rapid increase in sin throughout the years.

18. When Jared had lived one hundred sixty-two years he became the father of Enoch. 19 Jared lived after the birth of Enoch eight hundred years, and had other sons and daughters. 20 Thus all the days of Jared were nine hundred sixty-two years and he died.

(Genesis chapter 5 verses 18 to 20)  

On reflecting on verses 18 to 20 we see a remarkable contrast. It seems to be that during the time of Jared, there was an increase in good on earth because Jared outlived Mahalalel by 67 years. When goodness increases, the lifespan also increases.


21. When Enoch had lived sixty-five years, he became the father of Methuselah. 22 Enoch walked with God after the birth of Methuselah three hundred years, and had other sons and daughters. 23 Thus all the days of Enoch were three hundred sixty five years. 24 Enoch walked with God; then he was no more, because God took him.

(Genesis chapter 5 verses 21 to 24)


It seems that Enoch was a torch light in the dark world of his times, so much that God did not permit him to experience physical death. Moreover God took him in both body and spirit. Although Enoch lived three hundred sixty-five years which is the least when compared to his predecessors, the number of mentioned years is a perfect number when viewed from a Hebrew perspective.


25. When Methuselah had lived one hundred eighty-seven years, he became the father of Lamech. 26 Methuselah lived after the birth of Lamech seven hundred eighty two years, and had other sons and daughters. 27 Thus all the days of Methuselah were nine hundred sixty-nine years; and he died.

(Genesis chapter 5 verses 25 to 27)


On analyzing these verses it seems that Enoch's goodness did not spread on to his son Methuselah for the son experienced physical death while the father did not. However, among those listed in the exhibit below Methuselah still outnumbered his predecessors in number of years lived.


28. When Lamech had lived one hundred eighty-two years, he became the father of a son. 29 he named him Noah, saying, "Out of the ground that the LORD has cursed this one shall bring us relief from our work and from the toil of our hands." Lamech lived after the birth of Noah five hundred ninety-five years, and had other sons and daughters. 31 Thus all the days of Lamech were seven hundred seventy-seven years; and he died.

(Genesis chapter 5 verses 28 to 31) 


When reflecting on verses 28 to 31 we witness an important factor. This is the fact that even before he was actually born, Noah was to be a positive sign to his followers. As in Jesus' case, both births were supported by prophecy, thus Noah's birth was not coincidental. It therefore follows that although Lamech lived 770 years old which is more than Lamech but less than all his predecessors, goodness resided in Lamech and this was transmitted to Noah.


In order to refer to the people mentioned and their life span please refer to the following exhibit that is based on the learning of chapter 5 of the book of Genesis.

Adam lived 930 years.

Seth lived 912 years.

Enosh lived 905 years.

Kenan lived 910 years

Mahalalel lived 895 years.

Jared lived 962.

Enoch lived 365 years.

Methuselah lived 969 years.

Lamech 770 lived years.

I would like to end this chapter with the following prayer in light of chapter 5 of the book of Genesis.

Oh God almighty father of heaven and earth, I would like to thank you for my family. I am aware that some of  my family members including myself have not always left a blessing or a good example to others, however I thank you for those who did and are still doing. I pray that throughout the remaining of my days on earth I become a person who sets a good example for others and find grace and mercy in your eyes. I also pray that I do not waste a second of the time that you have allotted for me as a human and that when I come before You I do not come empty handed but loaded with good deeds and intentions.

Genesis Chapter 4

GENESIS

 CHAPTER 

4

1. Now the man knew his wife Eve, and she conceived and bore Cain, saying, "I have produced a man with the help of the LORD."

(Genesis chapter 4 verse 1)

On observing the first verse of the fourth chapter of the book of Genesis we observe an important change in Eve that is very important for our spiritual growth. This is the fact that she attributed the conception of her son as being withe the help of God and did not take all the merit for herself. In life we are collaborators with the will of God in every thing we do and say. Our attitude is to be anything is possible if you will it to be possible. On the other hand if anything is not according to your will it will not be.

2.  Next she bore his brother Abel. Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, and Cain a tiller of the ground.

(Genesis chapter 4 verse 2)

The author of the book of Genesis gives us the following information in relation to the first human's offspring. One of the brothers was a farmer, Cain who worked the ground and Abel who bred sheep. On reflecting the farmer produced the grass and veg to feed the sheep, while the sheep in turn provided the wool to make clothes and other material such as rope and more important the flesh served as food to nourish the family. Therefore as in society all our roles in some way are complementary to that of each other to keep the social system in good working order and harmony.



3. In the course of time Cain brought to the LORD an offering of the fruit of the ground, 4 and Abel for his part brought the firstlings of his flock, their fat portions. And the LORD had regard for Abel and his offering, 5 but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his countenance fell.


(Genesis chapter 4 verses 3 to 5)


On reflecting it seems that Cain's offering in comparison to that of Abel was of an inferior quality. On the other hand Abel's offering was of the best quality and preparation. This created strife between the two brothers so much that Cain became depressed and angry at both God and his brother.



6. The LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry, and why has your countenance fallen?

(Genesis chapter 4 verse 6)



God knew the reason behind Cain's anger however, as in the Cain of the first humans God gives us the opportunity of voicing our feelings to him while probing us in order to think rationally over the given situation. During such situations of anger, depression and emotional stimulation our thinking tends to become clouded and our perception of reality becomes corrupted.



 7. If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is lurking at the door; its desire is for you, but you must master it."


(Genesis chapter 4 verse 7)


It seems that Cain did not do well as previously mentioned his offering was of an inferior quality, therefore him and his offering were not accepted by God. As in prayer time, if we offer God the remnants of our day in prayer while spending the bulk of the hours of the day in worldly pleasure our offering would also be refutable and of an inferior quality.


When we feel not accepted our mood is altered and we become angry. When we are in a state of anger, we are in a state of disharmony, within ourselves and with others. This means the bond of spiritual harmony is broken and we are in a state of sin. When we are in this miserable condition, the Holy Spirit of God leaves and the Spirit of evil enters in on the situation. However according to verse seven, God has given us the capacity and command to master our feelings and emotions and overcome the situation that frees us from the bondage of sin.


8. Cain said to his brother Abel, "Let us go out to the field." And when they were in the field Cain rose up against his brother Abel and killed him.

(Genesis chapter 4 verse 8)


It seems that Cain was in such a deep state of sin, that the Devil took control of him and persuaded him to murder his brother Abel. On reflecting apart from physical death we can also kill each other with our tongues by hurting each others emotions which leads to the destruction of our self-esteem and when on a long term becomes emotional abuse which can lead to much psychological anguish and problems such as self harm etc which may take form in different forms.


9. Then the LORD said to Cain "Where is your brother Abel?" He said, "I do not know; am I my brother's keeper?"


(Genesis chapter 4 verse 9)


'Am I my brother's keeper?'. This declaration is very important for us to reflect on. As Christians we have the responsibility for the salvation of other peoples spiritual welfare. We have to keep in mind that religion is not only a private matter but, even a universal one, in the sense that we cannot be saved on our own but as a Church which is the universal body of Christ on earth.


10. And the LORD said, "What have you done? Listen; your brother's blood is crying out to me from the ground!

(Genesis chapter 4 verse 10)


The soul of the human being is immortal, in the sense that after the physical death has taken place the life of the soul is fully activated and appears before God. As believers in Jesus Christ we affirm that on dying our soul appears before God. In the case of Abel who was slaughtered by his brother, his soul appeared before God and cried to him in a spirit of agony and unrest. We can only imagine the souls and voices of agony of the millions of aborted babies who appear every day before God, victims of human egoism and sin.


11. And now you are cursed from the ground, which has opened its mouth to receive your brother's blood from your hand.

(Genesis chapter 4 verse 11)


God cursed Cain from the face of the earth which was now against him for having contaminated the earth with Abel's blood who was a very good person. According to verse eleven from the fourth chapter of the book of Genesis it seems that Cain not only slaughtered his brother but also buried him into a hole in the ground in order to cover up his sin.


12. When you till the ground, it will no longer yield to you its strength you will be a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth."

(Genesis chapter 4 verse 12)


God's curse implied that the ground would no longer produce its best product and as a consequence Cain would have to move from one place to another instead of having a fertile land from which to reap his crops in order to ensure his well being as a farmer.


13. Cain said to the LORD, "My punishment is greater than I can bear!

(Genesis chapter 4 verse 13)


As a human facing the consequences of his actions it is normal for us to complain to God for the penalty that befalls us even though it is our sinful actions that stimulated the non desired consequences.


14. Today you have driven me away from the soil, and I shall be hidden from your face; I shall be a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth, and anyone who meets me may kill me."

(Genesis chapter 4 verse 14)


When being in such a desolate condition, our brain has a tendency of blowing the situation out of proportion and misinterpret the situation. When passing judgement on Cain God never declared that Cain was banished from the earth or that anyone who finds Cain could kill him.


15. Then the LORD said to him, "Not so! Whoever kills Cain will suffer sevenfold vengeance." And the LORD put a mark on Cain, so that no one who came upon him would kill him.

(Genesis chapter 4 verse 15)


God loves us so much that He will never willfully permit our death. In order to protect Cain God made a sign on him as a means of protection. At the time of baptism, by means of the priest God makes a sign on us to protect us against the forces of evil.


16. Then Cain went away from the presence of the LORD, and settled in the land of Nod, east of Eden.

(Genesis chapter 4 verse 16)


Cain was compelled to leave the presence of God due to the severity of his sinful act, however he did not live the life of a wandered. It seems that God gave him the opportunity to settle down in Nod which was a sort of sanctuary or place of immunity granting security for fugitives, and have a new beginning. God loves us so much that He does not want to see us lose our souls.


17. Cain knew his wife, and she conceived and bore Enoch; and he built a city, and named it Enoch after his son Enoch.

(Genesis chapter 4 verse 17)


On reflecting it can be observed that we can find a change in attitude in the person who wanders away from the presence of God. One character trait is that the person becomes self-centered instead of God Centered. This is reflected by the fact, that the city that Cain built was named after his son Enoch and not after his God. Moreover Cain built himself a city that means strength in his own power and security and even fame and pride.


18. To Enoch was born Irad; and Irad was the the father of Mehujael, and Mehujael the father of Methushael,and Metushael the father of Lamech. 19 Lamech took two wives the name of the one was Adah, and the name of the other Zillah. 20 Adah bore Jabal; he was the ancestor of those who live in tents and have livestock. 21 His brother's name was Jubal; he was the ancestor of all those who play the lyre and pipe. 22 Zillah bore Tubal-Cain, who made all kinds of bronze and iron tools. The sister of Tubal-cain was Naamah.

(Genesis chapter 4 verses 18 to 22)


On reflecting on verses eighteen to twenty-two of the fourth chapter of the book of Genesis we can observe that many people emerged from Cain's descent and thus gradually the population spread of the world actually took place. One might doubt whether this is actually true, however it is no coincidence that  the above names are also found in Greek mythology. Moreover on reflecting we also that in time these nations reflect the changes of the times and the changes and discoveries made throughout these ages, such as the bronze and iron ages and those during which music and musical instruments were invented and mastered, thus reflecting the psychological and social development of the nations on earth, however nothing is said on the spiritual development of the same people.


23. Lamech said to his wives; "Adah and Zillah, hear my voice; you wives of Lamech, listen to what I say; I have killed a man for striking me. 24 If Cain is avenged sevenfold, truly Lamech seventy-sevenfold."


(Genesis chapter 4 verses 23 and 24)


Verses twenty-three and twenty-four are enough to answer the mentioned issue regarding spiritual growth in ones's relationship with God. When reflecting on verses twenty-three and twenty-four it becomes evident that in contrast to growth humanity was experiencing a rapid state of degradation leading to the increase of sin and sinful acts, which even to this day is still on the increase leading to much disorder, pain and anguish.


25. Adam knew his wife again, and she bore a son and named him Seth, for she said, "God has appointed for me another child instead of Abel, because Cain killed him." 26. To Seth also a son was born, and he named him Enosh. At that time people began to invoke the name of the LORD.

(Genesis chapter 4 verses 25 and 26)



When considering the trauma that the world experienced by means of Cain and his offspring, verses twenty-five and twenty-six are a source of encouragement that as much as evil people evil exist in the world that bring periods of tribulation and instability there are also people who bring peace and tranquility. The Holy Spirit of God never stops working in his aim of restoring stability in the world. God works on all levels meaning both the spiritual and even on a social level. During times of tribulation in the Roman Catholic Church when it became a super power, God sent the humble Saint Francis of Assisi, to help restore the balance. During these times and even later on in the life of the Church and the world God never stops working. When God decided that changes were needed in the Roman Catholic Church for the good of all, God stirred up the hearts of responsible people to initiate and apply these changes by means of Vatican 2 and the documents revealed through it to help restore order and continue in guiding us in our spiritual life.


I would like to end this chapter with the following prayer:

Oh God thank you for never stopping working in our lives. Forgive us for those times when we decided to act according to our wills instead of according to your Holy Will. Forgive us for choosing the corrupted ways of the world, instead of following the paths that you show us by means of your Holy Word as passed on to us by Your Holy Spirit by means of the Roman Catholic Church which is your eyes, mouth and body representing your presence on earth. Thank your for speaking to us in our hearts by means of our conscience and by other people chosen by you to enlighten us in our ways.

I would also like to thank you for lovingly and patiently keeping the balance on earth by sending Holy People such as Pope Francesco among others who you use as your hands and mouth in order to help us stay on the right track and walk in your footsteps.

Thank You God.

Genesis Chapter 3

GENESIS 

CHAPTER 

3

1. Now the serpent was more crafty than any other wild animal that the LORD God had made. He said to the woman "Did God say, 'You shall not eat from any tree in the garden?"

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 1)

In chapter three of the book of Genesis we are introduced with a new element. This is the reality of evil in us and around us. Before the first two chapters we are given no indications of the presence of evil, therefore throughout these first two chapters something had happened that opened the door for evil to have a presence on earth.

Once evil entered it started its role of envy against humanity. For some reason the presence of evil that we know as being the devil wanted to tempt the first humans in order to get them into some form of trouble.  

According to the first verse of the book of Genesis, the evil one is very intelligent indeed. It seems that the evil one thrives on people who lack the necessary knowledge. In the case of the woman she had not directly received instructions from God therefore this means that she might have had the opportunity of being in doubt and would be easily persuaded. On the other hand the man would not have been an easy target for he had received the original instructions.

Therefore when confronted or tempted by non-believers it is necessary for us to be prepared because these people may be pawns in the hand of the evil one in order to try us by testing our faith. Not having the required knowledge is not an excuse because information about God has been flowing constantly to us through the Roman Catholic Church since its beginning. Therefore the argument 'Ad ignoratium' that of knot knowing is not valid anymore.

2. The  woman said to the serpent, "We may eat out of the fruit of the trees in the garden 3 but God said, 'You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the middle of the garden, nor shall you touch it, or you shall die."


(Genesis chapter 3 verses 2 and 3)


It seems that in her bout of wits with the forces of evil, that she should never have engaged in the female scored her first point by answering the truth to the attempted trial to tempt her into disobeying the will of God.


4. But the serpent said to the woman, "You will not die; 5 for God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil."

(Genesis chapter 3 verses 4 and 5)


The devil plays a dirty trick on the woman by playing on the meaning of the word 'die'. The devil was aware of what the woman was understanding by this term. The woman had only understood material death and not the death of the soul and its punishment to eternal hell.


On the other hand the Devil was saying half truth, especially when considering that the first humans had a limited perception of their reality once their focus had been focused on God. This is proved by the fact that the two humans were not even aware of their state of nakedness.


6. So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate; and she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate.


(Genesis chapter 3 verse 6)


For some reason the woman as by nature was influenced by the beauty of the tree and its produce, however the nature of the fruit is still rather doubtful because as far as I am aware apples or fruit in general do not have the capacity to make one more wise. On the contrary I would go for the option that the woman read a book on psychology focused on self-awareness, became aware of her nakedness and since, on eating she observed that she remained physically alive, she had enough proof in her possession to convince her that the Devil was not lying. Moreover as in human nature, the woman was eager to share this important discovery with her husband who believed her and willfully chose to disobey the will of God and obey that of his wife.


This is a replica of what happens in everyday life. By means of the Roman Catholic Church God tells us all the truth that we need, however as humans we are still not satisfied and refer to other sources such as philosophy, psychology etc in order to discover what they perceive as being the truth. As humans we prefer not to drink from the pure fountain of God and drink from the muddy waters of the world.


7. Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made loincloths for themselves.

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 7)


When reflecting on verse seven I become more convinced that the product that the first humans consumed was knowledge however I could always be wrong. What convinces me is the fact, that all of a sudden the human's started catering for themselves and made clothes for themselves.


On the other hand their self-awareness made them experience fear for the first time in their lives since the time of their creation.


8. They heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden at the time of the evening breeze, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden.

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 8)


On observing the behaviour of the first humans we can note that sin breeds fear in us, so much that we are scared and seek shelter or a hiding place, with the awareness that the colour of their clothes would serve as camouflage among the foliage of the trees.


9. But the LORD God called to the man, and said to him, "Where are you?"

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 9)



On reflecting on this verse we must not be misled by the impression that God did not know where the first humans were hiding. God knows whats going on in the world at all times at all places. The reason why God asked the fatal question was that of stimulating the couple to admit their guilt that would lead to their repentance.


10. He said, " I heard the sound of you in the garden. and I was afraid, because I was naked: and I hid myself."

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 10)


Once again the author of the book of Genesis attributes human qualities to God whose footsteps are heard in the garden. This is strange when considering that the Spirit of God has no feet. Moreover I also observe that when we are put under the stress of our sins we become totally irrational. This is proved by the fact that the awareness of being naked has no connection with fear, unless any other issue such as disobedience is the underlying agenda.


11. He said, "Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you not to eat?"


God shines the light of truth which penetrates the darkness of our sins and gently probes at our conscience so that the truth will be revealed. On observing how God deals with us we can observe that although God had all the right to act in a judgmental  way, He did not do so.


12. The man said, "The woman whom you gave to be with me, she gave me fruit from the tree, and I ate."

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 12)


In contrast to God the attitude of the first human who had no right to pass judgement placed the blame on God for having had given the woman to him in the first place. It seems that as humans we only consider the presence of God when we are angry or in trouble so that we have a scapegoat on which to place the blame and vent our anger.

The first human apart from accusing God for having been given the woman that led to his downfall admitted that he had obeyed the woman and disobeyed the will of God. However the role of the devil is not yet exposed.


13. Then the LORD God said to the woman, "What is this that you have done? " The woman said, "The serpent tricked me, and I ate."

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 13)


As usually happens the blaming game is at play and at long last the culprit is exposed. Light penetrates the evil darkness and evil is exposed to the judgment of God. When we go for confession we do the same thing. In the presence of the priest we expose our sins and the role of the devil who causes us to commit one sin after another which at heart has the issue of disobeying the will of God in some way or another.


14. The LORD God said to the serpent, "Because you have done this cursed are you among all animals and among all wild creatures; upon your belly you shall go, and dust you shall eat all the days of your life.

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 14)


God exercises His justice by imposing the adequate punishment in accordance to the crime committed by the source of all evil. The serpent was condemned to move on his belly in dishonour for all his life and eat of the dust of the earth a residue trampled on by everyone.


15.  I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will strike your head, and you will strike his heel."

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 15)


The second part of the evil one's condemnation was a further condemnation by the human race at large and her descendants meaning all of us. Moreover the biblical author guided by the Holy Spirit of God is declaring an important prophecy. This is the battle between the Virgin Mary the Mother of God or Jesus and even between Jesus and the Devil. There are some who compare the woman to the Roman Catholic Church, whom the Devil will attempt to do harm and injure. It seems that the Devil will succeed in harming the woman or the Roman Catholic Church by striking the 'heel' however the offspring meaning God almighty shall inflict more severe damage by striking the head of the evil one.

During our times (2013) we are witnessing the damage that is being caused by the devil both inside the Roman Catholic Church and even beyond it in the world at large, however what is encouraging is that God at a time desired by His infinite wisdom will deal the fatal blow that will cause the end of the existence of evil and the evil one once and for all.


16. To the woman he said, "I will greatly increase your pangs in childbearing; in pain you shall bring forth children, yet your desire shall be for your husband and he shall rule over you."

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 16)


In relation to the woman who did not go off free of judgement God declared an increase of pain during the time of labour. However science in defying the will of God maybe not intentionally has developed the epidural injection in order to reduce the pain experienced during childbirth. However it one pain has been greatly reduced the pain and hardships of bringing up children still remains for both mother and father, however the mother due to her nature and stronger attachment to the offspring as child-bearer may tend to experience the hardships of her children in a more intimate way when compared to the father or husband.


17. And to the man he said, "Because you have listened to the voice of your wife, and have eaten of the tree about which I commanded you 'You shall not eat of it, cursed is the ground because of you; in toil you shall eat of it all the days of your life: 18 thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you; and you shall eat the plants of the field. 19 By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; you are dust and to dust you shall return.


(Genesis chapter 3 verses 17 to 19) 


God's last judgement was the downfall of humanity. This is the introduction of physical death and a life of work stress that will be life long. Moreover nature would now cease to produce freely of its produce because it was commanded not to be as fertile and fruitful as before. This meant an increase of labour for humanity thus making the task more difficult to accomplish.

However on reflecting the lesson that we can learn from the downfall of our forefathers of which we have inherited original sin is that of making it a personal goal of learning how to listen to the voice of God and learn to obey His will over that of the world which many times goes against the will of God.


20. The man named his wife Eve, because she was the mother of all living.

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 20)


Verse twenty confirms how much God's command was fulfilled. The man owned his wife so much that he gave her a name as he had done to all the animals that God had created. By giving a name to something it becomes a personal possession as in the case when we are given a puppy or a kitten as a pet. There first thing we do in order to claim it as our own is give it a name. On the other hand our names as in the case of Eve has a particular meaning especially if we stop and ponder on its real meaning and connotation. On reflecting Eve became the mother of all the living, however in truth she also became the mother of all the dead, because through disobedience all nature fell under the curse of original sin thus making all nature conditioned by a sinful nature that compels us to a life of sin.


21. And the LORD God made garments of skins for the man and for his wife, and clothed them.

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 21) 


Although the first humans sinned against God, the latter still showed His loving kindness towards humanity. As a parent God was aware that at some point in time the first humans, who as humans were by nature inclined to sin, would end up putting their foot in it. However, although the first humans had disrupted God's plan for humans, God had already embarked on plan 'B' in order to bring salvation for all humans in order to compensate for the sin of humanity.


22. Then the LORD God said, "See, man the man has become like one of us, knowing good and evil; and now, he might reach out his hand and take also from the tree of life, and eat, and live forever"

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 22)


Now that the first humans had become agents of disobedience they were a threat to order, peace and stability in that region created by God who made it perfect. The first humans were now a blemish that spoils the beauty of the perfect creation of God. God was not ready to take more risks, because the first humans were very close to becoming Gods. Like God they had the capacity to think and discern good from evil and even make decisions. Therefore as a parent God had to take a difficult decision.


23. therefore the LORD God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from which he was taken.

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 23)


In order to help the first humans grow in their maturity, the first humans had to face the consequences of their sinful actions and so God decided to expel the humans from their haven or place that had been a birthplace and home for them to go and venture in the world. When we disobey rightfully so we have to face the consequences of our sins for either a long or short term.



24. He drove out the man; and at the east of the garden of Eden he placed the cherubim, and a sword flaming and turning to guard the way to the tree of life. 

(Genesis chapter 3 verse 24)


It seems that God experienced resistance from the first humans. This is brought out by the fact that God is said to have driven with force the first humans from the garden of Eden. I can only imagine the feelings of fear and reluctance to leave the security of their birthplace to go and venture int the unknown. As for God He erected a firewall to protect the tree of life by being further damaged by the humans disobedience. The only means of granting us access to our heavenly home and convince God to switch of his firewall would be a great act of obedience that would be enough to compensate for the great act of disobedience committed by the first humans.



I would like to end this chapter with the following prayer:-



Oh God our loving father please protect us from evil that is in us and beyond us. Protect us with your loving kindness and love and with the Holy blood that you shed in your passion for our salvation. 

Amen

Genesis Chapter 2

GENESIS 

CHAPTER 

2

1. Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all their multitude.

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 1)

It is astounding how the process of creation that knows its beginning in chapter one of the book of Genesis is carried forward in to the second chapter of the book of Genesis. This could be an introductory phrase, a technical device used by the author of the book of Genesis, as in the use of flashbacks.

2. And on the seventh day God finished the work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all the work that he had done.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 2)

On reflecting the author of the book of Genesis is applying human attributes to God, who is portrayed as being in need of rest after having finished all the work that He had done. However the message of this verse is for us humans who unlike God need the necessary rest. As humans we are to respect the boundaries ascribed by God with reference to work. God commanded us to work by day and rest by night and stop completely during the week-end save for certain occupations such as health and law enforcement among others anything can wait during the week end. During his leisure time God did not waste His time but spent it in reflection and evaluation of His work and took pleasure in His creation. After a week of working it is therefore necessary to stop and think about all the help and support and an abundance of graces that God has bestowed on us, without our being aware of them. While reflecting we can make special time of prayer and meditation during we we, thank God our father for loving and caring for us in many special ways.  

3. So God blessed the seventh day and hallowed it because on it God rested from all the work that he had done in creation.

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 3)

In order for us to remember this special day of rest and leisure in God, our father ordered that this day that is 'Sunday' for us Christians be held as a day of rest and that no work is to be done on this day. The State especially that of Malta and other nations agreed to hold this day as one of non work. However it is becoming a trend that certain outlets are opening their doors for business even on such days and thus are violating the will of God.

4. These are the generations of the heavens and the earth when they were created.

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 4)

On reflecting verse four of the second chapter of the book of Genesis is an appropriate conclusion for the first chapter of the book of Genesis. As already mentioned this could be another technical device used by the author.

5. In the day that the LORD God made the earth and the heavens, when no plant of the field was yet in the earth and no herb of the field had yet sprung up-for the LORD God had not caused it to rain upon the earth, and there was no one to till the ground;

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 5)

Anyone with good observation skills can observe that we are going to reflect, on a similar or the same creation event or story found in Genesis chapter 1 and concluded in Genesis chapter 2. However if we compare the two versions we can observe certain features that contrast or even seem to contradict each other. 

According to verse eleven of the first chapter of the book of Genesis God created vegetation on the third day before the creation of humanity. In contrast to verse eleven, verse five of the second chapter of the book of Genesis says that before the creation of humanity there was no vegetation because God had not sent rain on the earth.

Although this is a question that  up to now in the chapter we may remain without knowledge of  the correct answer we cannot refute the baby and the water and refute the whole creation event or process, because our faith is not determined by such technicalities, however what can be observed is that the second version of the process of creation found in chapter two of the book of Genesis when compared to the first one contains particular details that make the two versions complementary instead of contradictory to each other.

6. but a stream would rise from the earth, and water the whole face of the ground-

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 6)

On applying the tools of reasoning that are complemented by our faith it can be concluded that streams do not flow from the earth, however a geyser can blow out water from the earth and water the vegetation on earth.

7. then the LORD God formed man from the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and the man became a living being.

(Genesis chapter 1 verse 7)


God left for last the most precious of his creation in which he takes pride and pleasure. This is proved by the fact that among all the creatures created by Him God chose to send his son in the form of a human. Humans are special because since as creatures and as human race we owe our existence to God, who personally gave us life by blowing His Holy Spirit or soul into our frail bodies, that actually gave us life.  


On reflecting the body can have all its organs working in perfect order, however if we do not have the Spirit of God dwelling in us, we are technically without life in us. From the beginning of the process of life inside the womb, it is God who gives life to the fetus apart from human intervention. At the time of baptism and confirmation that same Holy Spirit is again given to us by means of the sacraments.


8. And the LORD God planted a garden in Eden, in the east; and there he put the man whom he had formed.

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 8)


With reference to the actual location of the garden of Eden there is much discourse. Among the places mentioned is the region of Ethiopia where even s spring is found that is said to be a source of supply to four rivers in the same region. 



Although the location of the garden of Eden might appear to be interesting the emphasis of this analysis is not the discovery of such land marks, we will leave that for archaeologists. What is important and therefore subject to our reflection is the fact that God is said to have put the man in the garden. This might imply that the first man was in no position to walk as in the case of a new born baby or maybe took the human in his Spirit and took him to the mentioned location like and eagle who carries her offspring under her wings. Another possibility is that the human did not know the way and God carried him to the location.


Many times God as a loving father God carries us during times of tribulation. From a human perspective it may seem to be that we are enduring the storm on our own, however in truth God is always with us protecting us from the temptations of the Devil and our own negative inclinations.



9. Out of the ground the LORD God made to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight and good for food, the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 9)


It seems that the first human was growing and ready to face his first task. God prepared the first test for him. This is the test of obedience. Among all the trees planted in the garden and on earth God planted in the very middle of the garden the tree of knowledge of good and evil. 


As humans we are also given the opportunity of choosing what is right from what is wrong. Moreover we are also been given the mental ability to make the correct choice, however when faced with the opportunity we do not always make the right choice. This is because we tend to follow our own desires instead of referring to the will of God by means of spiritual discernment.


10. A river flows out of Eden to water the garden, and from there it divides and becomes four branches. 11 The name of the first is Pishon; it is one that flows around the whole land of Havilah, where there is gold; 12 and the gold of that land is good; bdellium and onyx stone are there. 13 The name of the second river is Gihon; it is the one that flows around the land of Cush. 14 The name of the third river is Tigris, which flows east of Assyria. And the fourth river is the Euphrates.


(Genesis chapter 2 verses 10 to 14)



On reflecting these verses have no significance however from an archaeological perspective and even geographical, the mentioned rivers are of particular value and significance that actually sustains the credibility of the Word of God. What is of significance is that the river flowing from Eden has its spiritual source found in God that is the sustenance of all creation both natural, physical and spiritual or supernatural.


15.  The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it.

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 15)


According to verse fifteen of the second chapter of the book of Genesis, the first human had developed enough to perform the first given task. This was the role of a gardener. God assigned man the task of keeping the garden of Eden and to reap its produce. God works in the same way with us even in sour spiritual, social and psychological development. On sensing that we are ready to advance in our lives, God gives us the next task that may consist of anything that may promote our well being and development.


16. And the LORD God commanded the man, "You may freely eat of every tree of the garden; 17 but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall die."


(Genesis chapter 2 verses 16 and 17) 


In verses sixteen and seventeen of the second chapter of the book of Genesis God moves on to another stage in our development. This is the responsibility and the consequences of our actions that lead us to commit sins against each other and against the will of God. God is clear in his admonitions without any signs of ambiguity or contradiction. If we commit this action, this will be followed by the relative consequence. 


18. Then the LORD God said, "It is not good that the man should be alone: I will make him a helper as his partner."

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 18)


God is aware that as humans we are not fully self-sufficient and that at some point in time we will be in need of the help, love and support of other human beings as much as that of God. God is also aware that it would facilitate the purpose of communication and relationships if the chosen partner would be of the same form and image meaning human likeness.  


19. So out of the ground the LORD God formed every animal of the field and every bird of the air, and brought them to the man to see what he would call them; and whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name.

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 19)


On reflecting verse nineteen clashes with what we have reflected on in the first chapter of the book of Genesis in relation to the creation of the animals of both land, sea and air. However if we adopt the perspective that the two creation accounts complement each other we can infer that God brought all the animals to the first human to possess them by giving them a name that would be forever. God gave us this authority over nature. This reflects further human growth and development. It can also be highlighted that God gave the first human this task in order to continue improving his skills and did not immediately find him the adequate partner.


20. The man gave names to all the cattle and to the birds of the air, and to every animal of the field; but for the man there was not found a helper as his partner.

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 20)


It seems that throughout the naming process God was assessing what type of creature would be adequate as a helper for the human, however in His infinite wisdom God was aware of the human's needs.


21. So the LORD caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and he slept; then he took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh.

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 21) 



When reflecting on verse twenty-one we assist for the first major operation. God created for the first human a replica human just like the original. God knows exactly how to match according to what is according to the natural and spiritual order. On reflecting God could have gave a man to the first human to be his partner, but he did not because God knows what is the best for our human spiritual and social development. If God created two men, this would not reflect the image of God because God declared Himself to appertain to both the male and the female traits. Moreover society and its development would have been stunted and the only means of reproduction for the two male humans would be to mate with animals in order to reproduce and obey God's command.


22. And the rib that the LORD God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man.

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 22)


As in the case of the male human God tenderly carried his newborn human to the male human who in age and maturity was more developed since he had been created before. We can only imagine the first man's feelings on finally being found a partner sharing his own likeness and form or image. 


On a spiritual level when we encounter God for the first time we would try to spend so much time with Him in order to get to know Him. This is the attitude of the Christian. Every day is to be an exploration of God in our lives. Our aim is to get to know God better a help develop a long lasting relationship with Him.


23. Then the man said, "This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; this one shall be called Woman, for out of Man this one was taken."

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 23)


Finally Adam's wish had come true God gave him an adequate partner. Somehow the man became knowledgeable that the woman was created from his rib. God could have revealed it to him Himself. On growing up God makes us aware of our uniqueness both as individuals and both as humans. 


24. Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife, and they become one flesh.

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 24)


By means of the first human beings God laid the foundations for the institution of marriage that is the union of a man with a woman and the beginning of a new family. As in God who is both male and female God declared that the man and woman would be likewise one flesh, mind and spirit. However this bondage is not a simple process at all. There are case when the woman and man leave the homes of their parents but they are still cleaving to them, in the sense that until trust and security in the partner is fostered the cleaving with the partner is not yet complete. This lack of trust in each other may be the cause of much litigation between them because both may refer to their parents as their reference points and not trust in each other. 

Spiritually this is also the case.  During our relationship with God at times we may clash and think of abandoning it while it is still in a non developed phase. However, in time we will learn how to place our trust in God alone and foster a blind faith in Him. As in the human process this is a long process because it implies the gradual denial of our own human will and the adoption and acceptance of the will of God as our life principle.


25.  And the man and his wife were both naked, and were not ashamed.

(Genesis chapter 2 verse 25)


On reflecting one tends to ask oneself about how come two naked people, seeing each other for the first time in their life could not have felt ashamed. One of the first reasons that comes to mind is that the focus of the first two human beings was not on themselves and on their sexuality but on God. Their eyes and brains were still spiritually pure and not corrupted by their own carnal natures with its drives, urges and strong sexual desires. For this time of their life they were still physically and spiritually pure, therefore there was no reason for them to feel ashamed.


As Christians this is to be our prayer. I wish to end this chapter with this intention in mind heart and Spirit.


"Oh God, purify my eyes so that they may only have their focus on you, my brain so that my thoughts will be purified in You and be free from the attraction of the world. My body so that in both thoughts and actions it will give glory to You every day of my life. My Spirit that is already yours so that we will become totally whole in cleaving and in leaving of the corrupted sinful spirit of this world. So that one day we will be united totally in Spirit and in in flesh amen. 

Genesis Chapter 1

GENESIS 

CHAPTER 

1

Before meditating on the first verse of the first chapter of the book of Genesis I would like to introduce myself and explain the aims of this analysis of the Bible. From the beginning I wish to clarify that this analysis is my prayer time that I spend in meditating on the Word of God. Therefore the insights that we will be reflecting on are all the fruit of prayer. Secondly the aim of this analysis is not that of challenging any held doctrine or belief by the Roman Catholic Church. Thirdly this is no scientific inquiry that is based on facts or scientific research. The aim of this 'Bible Analysis' is that together we reflect on the Word of God and experience spiritual growth in the process. Now that I have put the cards on the table in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit we open our bibles and refer to the first verse of the book of Genesis. 

1. In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth.

(Genesis chapter 1 verse 1)



According to the first verse of the book of Genesis as found in your Bibles, 'In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Whether we accept it as true or not it is a fact that the earth in some period of time was created. It was the purpose of God to have the world created. On reflecting on a personal level God even created my world, meaning the circumstances of my life for a particular reason. The main reason may be that through our world we can give praise and glory to him. When considering that God has the power and authority to create this means that He is an active God and not a passive one. Moreover on reflecting and considering with absolute conviction that God has created my world, I rest assured that God not only created it but is in control of all the circumstances of my life. Once I know who is the pilot of my world I rest assured that my aircraft will reach its destination as long as I do not attempt to get hold of the controls and steer my life on a different agenda from that which God has planned or designed for me and even you.



2. the earth was a formless void and darkness covered the face of the deep, while a wind from God swept over the face of the waters.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 2)




When going referring to the second verse of the book of Genesis, we find written, that when God created the earth it was formless and empty. This means that our world had no form of life living on it. When comparing this emptiness to our state of spiritual or even psychological being or welfare we could also be living in a world that is empty and or dead. We may be living under the impression that we are leading a happy life. We may also feel that we have reached or are in the process of reaching the fulfillment or apex of our careers, and that when we reach our goal, we will be living the success that we had planned. On the other hand we may have reached the most important goal of our live and may have even started reaping from the positive consequences of our success and become aware that our life is still empty and or dead. This may be due to the fact that we may have placed God on the passenger seat and may have ended up living a life entirely or almost without the presence of God.



At the point of experiencing the first crisis of our lives God makes us aware that our life appears to be full however in reality if God is not present in our lives it is empty. In extreme cases life can end up so depressing and senseless that one may even resort to suicide. However if we really and truly believe in God our father and creator we may experience the same crisis, however our attitude to it may be more positive especially when compared to that of the person who has no concept of God in his or her life.  



According to verse two of the first chapter of the book of Genesis, the Holy Spirit of God was already on the earth although it was still dark and empty. Even though our situations appear to be bleak to the point of not being able to see the logic of the given situation, God is still active in the situation and is still there ready to penetrate the darkness of our sins when we give Him the go ahead to intervene in our lives.




3. Then God said, " Let there be light"; and there was light.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 3)



On seeing the darkness of our sins, God intervenes by giving us His light in the given situation. On reasoning it can be concluded that light is stronger than darkness, and where light is present, darkness has no power to exist. At the time of our baptism God blessed us with his grace, and the graceful light of God came upon us. When we receive God's light or blessing the presence of evil has no power over us or even a spiritual presence in us. When the Roman Catholic Church in the name of God gives its its manifold blessings as in the case of baptism, confirmation, confession, marriage, ordination to the priesthood or celibate life, God charges the light of his grace in us. The analogy is that of a rechargeable battery. When it is inserted into the battery charger that has been switched on by the user who has given the command let there be power in the battery charger, the recipient that is the battery in the case of the charger and us in the mentioned circumstances we receive a strong boost of God's blessing.  In contrast when a person decides not to go to Church to receive the sacraments, gradually the person loses his charge until one's battery loses its charge completely and becomes totally flat. However even though this may happen God is always ready to switch on the power switch and give us the needed boost of power to put us back on track in the direction of our redemption leading to our salvation.



4. And God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 4)  



And God saw that the light was good. It seems that our God does not intervene in a careless way. God is a God of order and not of chaos or disorder. Since the beginning God decided to separate light from darkness so that one could not coexist with the other. At the beginning of creation the world is enveloped in the darkness of sin, however when God gave his command and blessing of the earth, all evil had been commanded not to be present in the presence of the Holy Spirit of God. In fact this is proved by the fact that God perceived his creation as being very good, that according to God's standards was perfect meaning free from evil. God seems to evaluate his creation and take pride in his work. When God creates our life at the time of our conception he creates us in a perfect spiritual way. Some may argue that some of us have not been born in such a perfect way.



Some of us have been born with a disability and have a harsh cross to bear that is very painful indeed. However when considering that God is a loving father, I would never consider jumping to the conclusion that God with willful intent could ever have commanded that him or her was to be born with this or that disability. However even though it is a harsh reality to experience, if the persons involved accept this reality as being part of their life on earth one can accept the fact that we all have crosses to bear in life, however those of some of us are harsher than those of others. However, along with the challenge God gives particular blessings to each of us in order to help us carry our crosses every day of our lives.



God separated light from darkness. Good and evil can never exist at the same time. Even in one human due to our sinful nature without the grace of God one is not able to live a good life for a long time. Surely after some time as humans we are bound to end up performing some form of sin and become in need of reconciliation with God by means of the Sacrament as initiated by the Roman Catholic Church. A typical example of the presence of the presence of light and darkness in human beings is the case of a possessed person. On being exposed to holy water or light the devil or evil spirit in that person becomes turbulent in the person until it cannot stand the power of praise and blessings any longer so much that it has to leave the person altogether.



5. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 5)


In His infinite wisdom God set up boundaries distinguishing the light that marks the day and that which distinguishes the night. On reflecting this means that in the realm of heaven there was to be no traces of darkness, and in the realm of evil there was to be no traces of God's light and grace, so that those who are in the perils of Hell can never have an experience of God, and those in the presence of God can never experience the perils of evil. Moreover God gave us the two options to chose from since the very beginning of our existence that is the choice of doing good and remaining  from that of choosing the doing of evil acts



In order to set up order in our lives God set up the first natural clock that helps us to distinguish day from night and vice versa, so that we can distinguish those actions that are to be done throughout the day and their are actions that are to be done during the night such as sleep and rest. Moreover there are actions such as prayer and meditation that can be done both during the day and even during the night. The angels in heaven before the throne of God never stop giving praise and worship to God so why should we.



On a material level it is important for us in life not to mix up or create conflicts within these boundaries by respecting them and the roles that are attributed to both day and night. Unfortunately when these boundaries are abused there is chaos, stress and utter confusion in the life of the abuser. So in order to live a whole and balanced life both on a spiritual, social and psychological level because we are composed of flesh and spirit and mind, we need to strike the much needed balance between the mentioned boundaries and pray to God to help us respect the ascribed and created roles.



6. And God said, "Let there be a dome in the midst of the waters, and let it separate the waters from the waters." 7. So God made the dome and separated the waters that were under the dome from the waters that were above the dome. And it was so.



(Genesis chapter 1 verse 6 and 7)




On reflecting on verse of the first chapter of the book of Genesis, we are given spoon fulls of the cultural beliefs of the time. We are all familiar with the ancient belief that held that the world was flat and whoever sailed to the edge of it would perish forever. Verses six to seven also reflect a previously held belief. The people of these times also believed that the world was flat and that God created a dome that rested on the edges of the world. It was also held as a belief that this dome supported rain water that from which in His great generosity God showered the earth, to help sustain life on earth. Although similar beliefs are supported by other world religions, one can easily challenge the truth content of these verses, however one has to keep in mind that the aim of the author of the book of Genesis was not to propose a new scientific theory or a new form of irrigation. The message was that of portraying God as the creator He really is, therefore the scientific element is irrelevant in the message of this chapter of the book of Genesis.



On reflecting as humans we may also hold beliefs about God and maybe even against other people that when put to the test of reality are proved to be without any reason or grounds to be treated as valid or true. There are people who have held the belief that their parents did not love them and it was almost only at the point of death that they faced their reality and talked about this issue with their parents against which they had held a grudge for almost a life time until God permitted them to be healed from the bondage of these false beliefs and live as whole persons.
 


8.  God called the dome Sky. And there was evening and there was morning, the second day.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 8)


The author of the book of Genesis portrays God as preparing the earth in order to be inhabited by both creatures and humans. God works before hand. He can easily be called proactive. Even before humans were created God was already preparing them a place were to dwell in. This reflects God immense love for us. Even before we face a crisis or a trial in life God is in control of it in order to change the appearing to be negative situation into our favour so that we can learn and experience growth from that situation.



9. And God said, " Let the waters under the sky be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear." And it was so.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 9)



With one single order the elements of the sky and those of the sea are sent to their respective places, the atmosphere and even oceans obey the will of God so that the process of creation could be continued. It can be observed that all the elements of nature are subject to God and are under his control. This can be said for all the events that take place on earth. God has control of nature, however humans tend to interfere or meddle with the course of nature as planned and controlled by God and we experience world disaster which we then blame on God and label them as being, 'Acts of God'.



When reflecting on verse nine of the book of Genesis I can imagine a volcanic eruption in a location in sea. As a consequence of such an event the surrounding waters would be forced away by the impact of the blast of the eruption. Consequently dry land would appear in the process. However as previously mentioned the way in which it happened is irrelevant to the purpose of this analysis, what is important is that God as a master creator has full control over nature and that as consequence of His love for us he worked on our behalf, and is still at work even today to preserve us and our well being although the process during our times is more challenging due to human sinful intervention. However, nobody or no such means can stop God's intervention on earth in in our lives. God does everything for our good. Even though disasters may happen such as a tsunami, and we might not understand why it has happened, in the background God still loves the injured people, however either for their own good or for the good of humanity, that event had to take place according to the will of God. It sometimes happens that after a period of time, the truth is revealed, and we are astounded by the facts of human meddling or negligence, behind a disaster such as a train crash that might have taken place.




10.  God called the dry land Earth, and the waters that were gathered together he called Seas. And God saw that it was good.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 10)




As in the previous verses God saw that his creation was good, according to me his creation was more than perfect according to a perfect order. Now that He had finished making the basic elements meaning the sky which is the dwelling place of God and his angles and the earth the place where he would dwell with his people in the future, God continued the process of creation. Before creating our dwelling place on earth, God created our dwelling place in heaven which is our only true and secure home in the presence of God the father.



11. Then God said, "Let the earth put forth vegetation: plants yielding seed, and fruit trees of every kind on earth that bear fruit with the seed in it." And it was so.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 11) 


Verse eleven from the first chapter of the book of Genesis is one of the most important verses in the defense of God as creator (not that He actually needs it) when faced with the challenges and theory put forward by science such as the theory of evolution.



God created every fruit tree and vegetation with the capacity of making seeds to reproduce themselves and not vice versa. This means that the tree and vegetation species did not evolve from each other since God created the prototype original plants and trees. By now vegetation and trees sprouted every where on earth according to God's plan for distribution in both quantity, quality and kind. Since God gave nature the capacity and God ahead to distribute itself the process proceeded thus reflecting the divinity, diversity, beauty, and bounty of the creator. As part of nature humans were also born with the capacity to create and recreate in both beauty, quality, and quantity. Through God we were given the shared quality of divinity in the sense of being created on the form and likeness of God, who is also an agent of creation, beauty, divinity in quantity and quality and has the power of creating but not of being created.




12. The earth brought forth vegetation: plants yielding seed of every kind, and trees of every kind bearing fruit with the seed in it. And God saw that it was good.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 12)



Verse twelve of the first chapter of the book of Genesis reflects the response of nature to the will of God. In subjection and obedience to God nature began spreading and recreating itself. On reflecting we can also ask ourselves if we are the type of people who take God at his word and obey it by giving a positive response to His Holy Will. On reflecting we can ask, ourselves whether if nature that lacks the power of reasoning and feeling obeys God why do some of us willfully disobey God and decide to enter marriage according to the conditions of Christian marriage that supports the reproduction of offspring and willfully decide not to have children which is not pleasing to God. Once we are given the capacity to have offspring it is a direct sin against the will of God not to participate in God's process of creation and produce offspring. Creation is not only limited to the producing of offspring. God also gave us the capacity to be creative. God gives us a diversity of talents, skills and abilities, that we can use to continue the process of creation that was initiated by God in the beginning. We are agents of God on earth or so called his right hand assisting Him in the process of creation. Remember God has no hands however He has yours and mine, therefore on keeping this in mind we are to commit ourselves to use our body, and soul for the good of humanity and not simply to satisfy our own needs.



 13. And there was evening and there was morning, the third day.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 13)


Verse thirteen is a technical device used by the author of the book of Genesis in order to reflect the progression, development and unity of the unfolding of the plan of God in the creation even that I dare not refer to as a story, because in fact it is not a story that happened only once. I believe the that the process of creation is still in a state of continuity, because God never stops being creative.




14. And God said, "Let there be lights in the dome of the sky to separate the day from the night; and let them be for signs and for seasons and for days and years. 15 and let them be lights in the dome of the sky to give light upon earth." And it was so.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 14 and 15)



On observing God's actions in verse fourteen of this chapter it can be noted that God at all costs wanted to shed light even when there was darkness. In order to break the effect of the darkness and not give it absolute dominion God ordered that there would be lights in the sky as in the case of the stars, moon and sun. The stars as mentioned in verse fourteen have the function of giving light in the darkness of the night as does the moon.



Moreover stars have been used by astronomers and even by people who travel on the seas in earlier times in order to find their way about. For instance in the New Testament it was by means of a star that Jesus was found in Bethlehem.



God wants us to lead an ordered life and not be like plants or vegetables who are born in the ground and remain in the ground. Our creative father wants us to advance and move on in life. Therefore in order to advance in a regular and controlled way, God gave us the necessary means. Typical examples are mentioned in verse fourteen. The stars had been given the function of helping to distinguish day from night, seasons from seasons, days and years. On reflecting we are given the image of a natural calendar that gives us the following guidelines. Therefore it can also be said that God wants us to be in touch and aware of our natural, social and spiritual environment and not live and alienated life.



16. God made the two great lights the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night-and the stars. 17 God set them in the dome of the sky to give light upon earth, 18 to rule over the day and over the night, and to separate the light from the darkness. And God saw that it was good. 19 And there was evening and there was morning, the fourth day.


(Genesis chapter 1 verses 16 to 19)


Since verses sixteen to nineteen carry the same message I have grouped them together into one citation. As already mentioned God ordered that His eternal light would have dominion over the darkness of evil. We have to keep in mind that were light exists darkness is no more. Therefore on adding the percentage of light even in a state of darkness the strength of darkness is weakened and light would have dominion over darkness.



Moreover from the initial state of chaos, God is gradually creating a state of order. Throughout these nineteen verses, God is constantly setting boundaries. This is applicable to sky and earth, sea and land and day and night and even the stars are given roles and boundaries. Everything is indeed in perfect order.



20. And God said, "Let the waters bring forth swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the dome of the sky."


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 20)




Now that the land and sea mechanisms were fully developed the next process was ready to be accomplished. This is the giving of life in both sea land and sky, God does everything according to a perfect order and gives much weight to detail even in our life circumstances taking care not to let us get hurt for no necessary reason if not by our own doing.



21.  So God created the great sea monsters and every living creature that moves, of every kind, with which the waters swarm, and every winged bird of every kind. And God saw that it was good.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 21)


As previously mentioned we find more proof that in the process of creation God created all the species of the world, which goes against the teachings of evolution. Moreover again we find the cultural belief inserted in the narrative which reflects the traditions and beliefs of these times, this is referred to by the mentioning of the great sea monsters.   


22. God blessed them, saying, "Be fruitful and multiply and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth" 23 And there was evening and there was morning, the fifth day.


(Genesis chapter 1 verses 22 and 23)



On reflecting on this verse we notice that our God is one of life and not of death. According to his design as master creator all the mentioned creatures were to live in peace and harmony with each other and continue to flourish and multiply according to God's Holy Will. The author of this book and chapter continues to weave the narrative by adding the same ending comment showing the continuity of the creation process. This is the verse, 'And there was evening  and there was morning...



24. And God said, " Let the earth bring forth living creatures of every kind: cattle and creeping things and wild animals of the earth of every kind." And it was so. 25. God made the wild animals of the earth of every kind, and the cattle of every kind, and everything that creeps upon the ground of every kind. And God saw that it was good.

(Genesis chapter 1 verse 24 and 25)



On analyzing this biblical verse we cannot fail to notice that in verses, twelve, twenty and twenty-four of the first chapter of the book of Genesis the created product was generated by the earth and were not created directly by God. This means that nature was given the order and authority to create and regenerate itself. This also means that God became a collaborator with nature and did not remain sole creator.



God likes to share the ruling of our lives with us. He gives us all the needed resources to accomplish this as in signs and all the needed support love and care. As human all we need to do is place our complete faith in him.



26. Then God said, " Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth."


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 26)



At long last God decided in all his love and generosity to give all that he had created to humans that he also wanted to create. Moreover God not only wanted to make this enormous bounty of a donation but wanted to create humans in His form. This meant He wanted to share even his form and likeness with humanity. Humans were to be created to be like God thus making them share of the qualities of God having the capacity to be created create and recreate and have dominion over all creation.


27. So God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them: male and female he created them.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 27)


God loves us so much that of all the creatures that He had created, which share of his beauty He decided to create beings in his form. According to verse twenty-seven God has female and male traits as in the nature that He had created. On reflecting on the male and female attributes as familiar to our culture, we can conclude that God is loving and caring, consoling and counselling and also rational and disciplined.



28. God blessed them, and God said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves upon earth."


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 28)



On reflecting on this verse we can observe that we find ambiguity in the fact to whom actually God is referring by the term 'them'. God could be referring to a male and female species to whom He has given absolute authority over nature. When reflecting on God's command we cannot help to comment on the fact that God gave humanity to dominate the world but not to destroy it, by wars and other forms of destruction and contamination or liquidation of the human kind as in the case of concentration camps such as Auschwitz and many other case of which we may still not be aware.



29. God said, "See, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit; you shall have them for food.


(Genesis chapter 1 verse 29)


It can be observed that since the beginning God wanted us to be herbivores and not carnivores. On reflecting we may wonder and ask ourselves what may have been God's reasons. It could be that in the consumption of meat one had to kill and shed the blood of the victim or animal to be slaughtered. However up to now we are given no traces of such violence. In his Divine providence God created enough resources to enable and cater for the needs of both humans and animals as in verse thirty of the first chapter of the book of Genesis.



30. And to every beast of the earth, and to every bird of the air, and to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food." And it was so. 31 God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good. And there was morning, the sixth day.


(Genesis chapter 1 verses 30 and 31)



As previously mentioned God created enough supply to cater for the needs of both humans and creatures of both sea, earth and air. This points out the fact, that we do not need to slaughter fish, mammals such as wales, and other creatures. If we want to be obedient to God, we are to consume all that He has made for us and no more.


God saw that everything He had created was indeed perfect. All the needed systems to create and sustain life had been created and were in perfect working order. The air was clean, the waters were free from contamination. It was heaven on earth, and idyllic setup lacking nothing.



In light of our reflection on the first chapter of the book of Genesis I would really wish to thank God for all his creation, for being a loving and caring and even disciplined parent in his behaviour towards us. Although You knew that as humans we were prone to spoil all that you had created you still gave us the authority and responsibility over all that you had created. Thanks for giving us your attributes and abilities especially that of being creative.

THANK YOU JESUS