Two books of the Bible begin with the same three words: In the beginning.
The Book of Genesis says, "In the beginning God created..." The very first thing we learn about God is that he creates. That is a hint at what it means for us to be created in his image.
The Apostle John writes, "In the beginning was the Word..." John is clearly referring us back to Genesis. In fact, the Word was the means by which God created: "And God said, 'Let there be light.' And it was so." God spoke and light happened. God speaks into our lives and stuff happens.
Of course, John is also referring to Jesus, the living Word of God. I find the principle that when we want to connect with God and his creative activity in this world, we will do it through the Word--through Jesus and through Scripture.
The process of memorizing passages of scripture has been the strongest catalyst to my spiritual growth. I have found that memorizing passages of scripture puts in my mind the mind of the Author. It writes God's Word into my heart.
I decided recently that my next passage of scripture to memorize will be Genesis 1-3. This is the seminal passage of the Bible. If you don't get these three chapters, you'll never understand the story of God. These three chapters contain the foundations for a world view that encompasses God's view of the world. Genesis addresses, in poetic fashion, the work of the Creator and presents a theology of our stewardship of the earth. It peeks at the Trinity. Genesis describes the nature of male and female and tells the heart and purpose of marriage. Genesis tells of the tragedy of sin and the possibility of redemption. It is the story of God in relation to humanity in three quick movements.
So that's my next personal endeavor to place the heart of God into my heart. I hope to own it by Christmas. I'll let you know how it goes.
What's your next step?
Sounds like a good place for me to start memorizing...
Thanks, Brad.
Posted by: Kirk | May 28, 2010 at 03:07 PM