April 29, 2019
In this morning’s Fruit of the Vine, Andy Henry reminds us that the creation story in Genesis presents a God who makes a new thing, not out of nothing, but out of chaos. “The creative Spirit is hovering over the tohu wa-bohu,” Andy writes. “This Hebrew phrase can be translated several ways, but it conveys a lack of order and harmony as well as possibility and openness.”
Take a moment to reflect on this insight. The disorderly nature of chaos presents us with possibility, with openness, with creative potential.
“Isn’t that a great description of our psychological state in the midst of new beginnings?” Andy asks, adding that we may be both energized by what is new and overwhelmed by uncertainty. “The story (in Genesis 1) reminds us that the presence of chaos does not indicate the absence of God. The Spirit of God is present, poised to move into the chaos to create something new, good, and beautiful.”
Where is there chaos, uncertainty, or tension in your life? Is there also possibility there? Openness? Creative potential?
Andy offers another insight: “The Hebrew word for Spirit is ruach. It can also be translated ‘breath.’ God is breathing in the chaos, offering life and energy, preparing to speak a new word.”
In the middle of whatever chaos you’re experiencing – especially as you feel stretched – breathe, and hold on to this promise: “The Spirit is about to create something new.”
I am praying that this week God might both breathe in me and teach me to breathe. I invite you to pray this prayer as well, and to hold on to hope with me that in the midst of our chaos, God can make “something new, good, and beautiful.”
Thank you,
Eric Muhr
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