Also take with you every kind of food that is eaten, and
store it up, and it shall serve as food for you and for them.
Noah did this; he did all that God commanded him.
Genesis 6: 21-22
Noah has no verbal exchange with God recorded in Genesis. In fact, Noah
has no speaking lines recorded until 9:25, after the waters of the flood
have subsided. We imagine the exchange between God and Noah, asking
ourselves the questions we assume perplexed Noah. “Why me? Why a
flood? What about all of my neighbors, and the creatures not brought
onto this ark? How am I supposed to build this thing, old as I am, in the
time you ask?”
Questions are not a bad thing. God created us to be curious, and curiosity
begets creativity, leading us to participate in God’s ongoing creative work.
But Noah asked no questions. “Noah did this; he did all that God
commanded him.” No questions asked. God had already provided Noah
with everything he and his family needed: instructions. Store up food for
yourselves and the animals. Take the opportunity to prepare for uncertain
circumstances, difficult days, and the unknown that will come after the
waters recede.
It’s hard to know when to ask questions and when to take the leap, put
our heads down, and follow where God is leading. Questions are often
healthy, but sometimes we use our inquisitive nature to delay what God
is already doing to transform the world around us. Along the way, God
provides opportunities for us to prepare for the journey in many ways.
Noah built the ark. He prepared his family, gathered the food, and took
care of the animals. Each careful step prepared him for the next step.
Surround yourself with people who will accompany you. Gather those
who will depend on you for care. Store up resources that will nurture you
through flood, fire, and famine. Serve God by tending to creation and be
on the lookout for what God is doing as we build up a refuge for those
displaced and discouraged.
God of wonder, give us the curiosity to join your creative work and the
faithfulness to follow your commandments, trusting that you carry us
through the storm and provide for the journey ahead. Amen.
Rev. Brandon M. Heavner currently serves as pastor of St. Mark’s
Evangelical Lutheran Church, Bethlehem, PA, and is a member of
Lutheran Congregational Services’ Advisory Board.
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