The Second Creation Story

Text: Genesis 2:4-9, 16-25

Reflection and Question: While scholars agree that this second version of creation is a writer from an earlier time than the priestly source discussed yesterday, exactly when this Jahwist school emerged is still debated. Human beings are front and center in this passage. I have always been struck by God’s recognition that, “It is not good that man should be alone,” which underscores the importance of love and commitment between two partners. Others emphasize that “a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife,” even though families and partnerships in Scripture come in all shapes and sizes. What strikes you most here?

Prayer: Holy Spirit, You breathe life into each of us just as You have from the very beginning. We bow at this order of creation: humans, then the garden, then animal life. Bless our understanding of these words as fuel for devoted service to You. Amen.

This meditation is based on the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).