The Bible: A Story That Makes Sense of Life Sample

Origins and God – The Source and Centre of Everything

In 1543 Copernicus published a theory that sparked a revolution: the Earth revolves around the sun and not the other way round. The assumption that Earth was at the centre was not only inaccurate, it was also unhelpful. We humans don’t flourish when we think we’re the centre. This belief produces arrogance, control, anxiety and despair. Today, our selfie culture could do with something similar – a spiritual revolution that puts God back at the centre. To help, Genesis declares: ‘In the beginning God . . .’ Before you and I, before anything else . . . GOD. 

Think about the implications for how we see the world if God is the centre: Is the world a cold empty space or a beautifully designed home? Is the environment raw material for profit or a divine gift to steward responsibly? Am I merely evolving DNA or a sacred being with eternal significance? Professor Brian Cox states: ‘We humans represent an isolated island of meaning, in a meaningless universe.’ But notice the irony: despite the emptiness around us, we struggle to conclude that our existence is meaningless. We know deep inside that life is more significant. When you hold a newborn or stand at the graveside of a loved one, which makes most sense? For me, it’s when we centre ourselves on God that we are able to explain our deeply held values.

So, what is this God like? Straightaway, we encounter God in action, creating the cosmos. From this we learn three things. First, God is supremely powerful. We see this in Psalm 8, God controls galaxies with His fingers and cares about human beings. We may be very small but we are greatly loved. 

Second, God is a prolific artist. If nature is a clue to the character of God then perhaps He’s not a miserable killjoy but an extravagant and joyful artist, the source of all beauty and goodness. If we centre ourselves on this God, maybe life won’t be so miserable after all? 

Finally, God is wisdom personified. If this world has been designed by a divine genius then we will flourish when we follow His original purpose. Even if we’ve turned our back on our maker and wandered into trouble, God reaches out to us. By centering our lives on God, we can experience an embrace of love and a purpose for life that satisfies our deepest need. 

REFLECT: Take a moment to centre yourself on God. Find a quiet place and reach out to God, asking for help and wisdom.