Genesis 1:1-5 (NRSV)
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Chapter 1In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, Verse 2the 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.
Verse 3Then God said, "Let there be light"; and there was light. Verse 4And God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness. Verse 5God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day.
Devotion
Happy New Year! Today, folks celebrate the beginning of the 2024 secular new year. Some of us may be starting this year with excitement and anticipation of good things. Others of us may be starting the year with concern and anxiety over disorderly times. Frankly, we’re probably beginning the year with enthusiasm and trepidation. Genesis 1 reminds us that in the beginning, there was also disorder until God created order. God, with a spirit-like wind, swept over the water above the formless void and the deep’s darkness. God spoke light into being, and “God saw that the light was good” (Genesis 1:4). From the very beginning, God declared that the day’s light—which provides purposeful order—was good. God continues to create order and purpose. As this year begins and proceeds, God will remain in control above any disorder we encounter. God will steadfastly guide us into the good light.
Prayer
Creator God, as we begin new times and unfamiliar experiences, we are often anxious. Help us feel your all-powerful presence as you guide us from disorder to good. In Jesus’ name, Amen.