| Series | Promises and resolutions |
|---|---|
| Theme | 2. Good promises - Folafolaga lelei |
| Colour | Lanu Meamata |
Scripture Focus: Kenese 9:8-17
God spoke to Noah and to his sons with him, saying, “As for me, behold, I establish my covenant with you, and with your offspring after you, and with every living creature that is with you: the birds, the livestock, and every animal of the earth with you, of all that go out of the ship, even every animal of the earth. I will establish my covenant with you: All flesh will not be cut off any more by the waters of the flood, neither will there ever again be a flood to destroy the earth.” God said, “This is the token of the covenant which I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations: I set my rainbow in the cloud, and it will be a sign of a covenant between me and the earth. When I bring a cloud over the earth, that the rainbow will be seen in the cloud, and I will remember my covenant, which is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh, and the waters will no more become a flood to destroy all flesh. The rainbow will be in the cloud. I will look at it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth.” God said to Noah, “This is the token of the covenant which I have established between me and all flesh that is on the earth.”
- Genesis 9:8-17 (WEB)
Study:
The aftermath of the great flood is a powerful testament to God’s character. Rather than complete annihilation, God offers a covenant – a solemn promise – to Noah and all living creatures. This covenant isn't based on humanity's worthiness, but on God’s own initiative. The rainbow serves not as a reward for righteous behavior, but as a *reminder* to God of His promise. This is profound! God, knowing His own tendencies towards justice, establishes a visible sign to restrain His judgement and demonstrate His unwavering commitment to mercy. The emphasis is on God *remembering* His promise, suggesting a deliberate act of grace against the natural consequences of sin.
Application:
We often focus on earning God’s favor through obedience, sometimes fearing judgement. This passage reveals a God who actively chooses mercy. The rainbow serves as a foretaste of God’s ultimate act of mercy in Jesus Christ. Just as the rainbow promises an end to global destruction, Jesus provides a path to forgiveness and reconciliation, overcoming the judgement we deserve. Recognizing this covenant should fill us with gratitude and embolden us to extend the same grace to others.
Reflection Questions:
- How does the concept of God 'remembering' His covenant change your understanding of His relationship with humanity?
- In what ways do we try to ‘earn’ God’s favor instead of relying on His grace?
- How can we be a “rainbow” to others, offering a sign of hope and mercy in a broken world?
- Consider a time when you extended or received unexpected mercy. How did that impact you?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for your unwavering covenant of mercy. Forgive us for times we’ve focused on earning your favor instead of receiving your grace. Help us to reflect your mercy towards others, becoming signs of hope and reconciliation in the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tags:Genesis, Noah, Covenant, Rainbow, Mercy, Judgement, Grace, Promises, Faith, Forgiveness, Biblical Theology