It is said that we human beings are creatures of habit.  I believe this, judging from my own experience and that of others.  Chronic chaos and disorganization and violence and things out of place and unreliability often make us uncomfortable if not downright nervous and afraid.  Isn't life much easier and friendly when the car starts unquestionably every morning, when the computer does what it's supposed to every time we use it, when an airline flight is actually on time, when people treat us with kindness and patience unless we clearly deserve otherwise?  Generally, the less surprises in our lives, the better.  Life seems to go nicer for us when things are kept in an ordered and peaceful state.  God knows this.  Perhaps that's why the creation account in Genesis is careful to tell us God created everything in a carefully planned out order, step by blessed step, leaving nothing to chance.  In fact, the very first act of creation is bringing an end to pre-existent chaos by establishing some sort of "light" in the darkness of the unknown.  Then, everything else follows in an orderly and peaceful fashion.  And the kicker is that, at every step of the plan, God calls it "good" and "blessed."  And finally, God gives us the responsibility of keeping it going in an orderly and peaceful fashion.  So what kind of job have we done with earthly existence?  Have we kept God's order and peace-or have we allowed chaos, disorganization and violence to creep back into the picture?  And if so, what do we plan on doing about it?  St. Paul's first-century benediction to the church at Corinth couldn't be more clear and applicable to us today: "Finally brothers and sisters, put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace and the God of love and peace will be with you."  A huge "Amen" to that!

 

In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, the 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.

And God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness.

 

Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell.  Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.  Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you.

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with all of you.