Read: Genesis 2:4b—3:24
Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper as his partner.” Genesis 2:18
In the story of Adam and Eve, relationship is primary. We may not know the how of creation, but this ancient story attempts to explain the why that gave birth to the world and humankind. Man was created to be with God, and woman was created to be with man. God wanted company, and God wanted us to enjoy relationships as well. We were built, birthed, and created to be in union with others and with God. That is why Adam and Eve hiding from God is such a heartbreaking scene in this story. The God who wanted nothing more than companionship is abandoned by creation itself. After eating from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, Adam and Eve hid in the bushes in an attempt to avoid God. Whatever the historicity of this ancient story is, the message is undeniably true. God created us for relationship, and yet, we so often hide ourselves from God and others. It was so from the very beginning, and God has been trying to find us ever since.
Do you hide from God?
Lord, find my hiding place. Call me from out of the bushes. Deliver me from my shame, and forgive me so that I can once again delight in our relationship. Help me also to receive the relationships I have with others as gifts, worthy of my time, attention, and thanksgiving. In Jesus’ name, I pray. AMEN.