The Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. Genesis 1:2

Thought Of The Day...
The first journey recorded in Genesis is not a pilgrimage by our spiritual ancestors across rugged terrain in response to God's calling. That kind of journey did occur at times, but the first journey recorded in Scripture is undertaken by God. The Spirit of God hovered over a world that was "formless and empty." The Spirit of God descended into the darkness that covered "the surface of the deep." We shouldn't find this journey surprising. Throughout the Bible we discover that God often had to step into the picture to bring order out of chaos and to shine light into dark places. But we tend to forget that. Instead we think we can wrestle with the raw material of life and bring order out of anarchy. But we typically make a mess of things. We don't have the wisdom or strength to shape the raw materials of life into something wondrous and beautiful. God does, however. That's why the first journey in Scripture is about God. God's Spirit hovers over the world like a bird hovering over her nest, protecting and feeding her young (see Isaiah 31:5). And as the psalmist reminds us, God continues to send his Spirit to "renew the face of the earth" (Psalm 104:30). The Lord's creative and sustaining energy nurtures us for faithful obedience in our own lives.

Prayer...
Heavenly Father, As we reflect on your Word in Genesis 1:2, we are reminded of your loving presence and your powerful Spirit that hovers over all of creation. You spoke and brought order and beauty into the chaos. We humbly ask that you do the same in our lives.

Spread the wings of your Spirit over us, Lord. Cover us with your protection and guidance. Help us to surrender to your will and trust in your plans for our lives. Bring order to the chaos and confusion that may be causing us stress and anxiety. Give us the strength and courage to follow your ways and walk in obedience.

Just as you created light out of darkness, we pray that you would shine your light in our hearts and minds, revealing your truth and your ways. Help us to see the beauty in your creation and in each other. Give us a heart of gratitude and a spirit of unity as we live out your purposes.

Thank you for being our loving and faithful God. May we always seek your presence and listen to your voice. We trust in your goodness and your power to transform our lives. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.