Day 2 Topic: Creation as God’s Work
Main Theme: “Do you believe this?” – Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
As we continue the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, we are invited to explore the theme, “Creation as God’s Work,” in light of the overarching question, “Do you believe this?” This is not just a question for Martha in the story of Lazarus—it is a question for each of us today, challenging our faith and our understanding of God’s sovereignty. As we look at the wonder of creation and the work of God, we are reminded of His power, His intentionality, and His ongoing care for everything He has made.
The scriptures we reflect upon today highlight that creation is not just an accident or a random series of events, but the deliberate, purposeful work of a loving and powerful Creator. And in this work of creation, we see the first manifestation of God’s desire to bring life, order, and beauty into being. This truth lays the foundation for understanding our place in creation and the role we are meant to play in God’s ongoing work in the world.
1. Creation: A Work of God’s Divine Intentions
The story of creation begins in Genesis 1:1-5, which opens with the profound statement, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” The passage reveals a Creator who shapes the formless and empty earth, speaks light into being, and creates the first division between light and darkness. God’s first act is not just a random occurrence, but a deliberate action filled with divine intention. The world is created in harmony with God’s will, and everything He creates is good.
As we reflect on this, we are reminded that creation was not a mere side project for God. It was an intentional act of love and power. The heavens, the earth, the light, the day, and the night—they were all created by God’s Word and reflect His glory. Everything we see, from the vastness of the universe to the smallest creatures, has its origin in God’s will.
Application: Do you believe that creation is the work of a purposeful God? When we look at the beauty and complexity of the world around us—whether in a sunrise, a mountain range, or a simple flower—do we see God’s intentional design? The world is not here by chance, but as the result of God’s deliberate act to create and sustain it. Understanding this helps us appreciate the sacredness of the earth and our role within it.
2. Creation’s Response: A Call to Praise
In Psalm 148, we are reminded that all of creation is called to praise the Creator. The psalmist invites the heavens, the sun, moon, stars, mountains, trees, animals, and even rulers and people to join in worship of God. This poetic hymn emphasizes that creation, in all its forms, is a testimony to God’s greatness and splendor. Creation itself points to the glory of God, and it is our calling to recognize this and participate in this praise.
“Let them praise the name of the Lord, for his name alone is exalted” (Psalm 148:13). This invitation is not just for people but for everything in creation. Whether it is the vast sky, the majestic mountains, or the quiet humming of a bee, all of creation is a reflection of God’s glory. We are invited to recognize this and respond in worship.
Application: Do you believe that creation speaks of God’s glory? Do you take time in your daily life to pause and acknowledge the presence of God in the world around you? Every element of creation is an invitation to praise. From the smallest detail to the grandest vista, God is speaking through the world He has made. Our lives should reflect this recognition by living in harmony with His creation and joining in the eternal song of praise.
3. Creation’s Groaning: Awaiting Redemption
While creation is a work of divine goodness and beauty, Romans 8:19-23 reminds us that it is also a creation that groans in eager anticipation for the full redemption that God has promised. The Apostle Paul speaks of creation being subjected to frustration, longing for the day when it will be set free from decay and liberated into the glory of God’s children. Creation is not static; it is in a state of anticipation, waiting for the full restoration that will come with Christ’s return.
In our world, we see the effects of this groaning in environmental degradation, injustice, and the suffering of creation. The beauty of the world is marred by sin, and yet there is hope. Just as God created the world in the beginning with purpose, He will also restore it to its original perfection. The promise of redemption and restoration is not only for humanity but for all of creation.
Application: Do you believe that creation is awaiting redemption? The world we live in is not perfect, and we can often see the brokenness of creation in the natural disasters, environmental destruction, and suffering around us. But the truth is, God is at work in this world—not only redeeming us but also renewing the earth. As Christians, we are called to participate in this redemptive work. Whether through caring for the environment, pursuing justice, or living in peace, we are partners with God in His ongoing work of restoration.
4. Our Role in God’s Creation
The creation story in Genesis reminds us that humans are given a unique role within God’s creation. We are made in God’s image and called to steward the earth (Genesis 1:26-28). As stewards, we are entrusted with the responsibility to care for the earth, nurture life, and maintain harmony in the world. Our responsibility is not to dominate creation but to care for it with love and respect, recognizing that it all belongs to God.
In this light, the work of creation is not only a display of God’s power but also a calling for us. We are invited to partner with God in preserving and renewing the world around us. Our actions—whether in how we interact with nature, how we treat one another, or how we live out our faith—are all part of our participation in God’s work of creation and redemption.
Application: Do you believe that you have a role in creation? As part of God’s creation, each of us has a unique calling to be caretakers of the earth and its resources. Whether it’s making conscious choices to reduce waste, advocating for justice, or simply being kind to the creatures and people around us, we are partners in God’s creation story. Our actions reflect our belief in God as Creator and our role in His work.
A Life of Belief in Creation as God’s Work
“Do you believe this?” The question Jesus asks Martha resonates with us today, as we consider the work of creation. Do we believe that creation is God’s handiwork? Do we believe that it reflects His glory, that it is groaning for redemption, and that we have a part to play in God’s ongoing work?
This belief should transform our relationship with the world around us. As we recognize God as the Creator and Sustainer of all life, we are called to live in a way that honors Him, cares for His creation, and anticipates the ultimate restoration He has promised. Our belief in God as Creator should lead us to live with gratitude, stewardship, and hope.
Prayer:
Creator God, We thank You for the wonder and beauty of creation. You have made the heavens and the earth, and everything in them reflects Your glory. Help us to see the world with eyes of awe, recognizing that everything around us is a testimony to Your greatness.
We confess that at times we have failed to care for Your creation as You intended. Forgive us for our neglect, and renew our hearts to live as faithful stewards of all that You have made. Give us the courage and wisdom to participate in the work of restoration, trusting that You are making all things new.
As we wait for the redemption of creation, may we live in hope, knowing that Your work is not finished. Strengthen our faith, and help us to live as people who honor You as the Creator of all.
In the name of Jesus, the Creator and Redeemer, Amen.
As we reflect on the beauty of creation and the sovereignty of our Creator, let us remember that God is actively involved in His world and invites us to join Him in His work. May we live with gratitude for His creation, responsibility for its care, and hope in its ultimate redemption. Do you believe this? If so, let it shape how we live today and how we care for the world God has entrusted to us.