“Then the LORD said to Noah, ‘Go into the ark you and all your household, for I have seen that you are righteous before me in this generation.'” (Genesis 7:1)
Our “One Story” actually contains hundreds of smaller stories that all contribute to the bigger picture. It is a symphony of many instruments working together to produce a beautiful piece of music. Each instrument has its own unique sound, but, when put together with the other stories, they produce a harmony and unity that reveals a single-minded God, set on redeeming His people. We know this because we started at the beginning.
This knowledge helps us whenever we read the stories of the Bible. We read each story in the context of the foundations established from the very “beginning”. God created this world, loves this world, provides for this world, and pursues the redemption of this world.
For example, today’s story is a very familiar one, the story of Noah and the ark. It is a great story known by people in the church and outside it. But if we read it without knowing the whole story it is simply about an angry God who destroys His creation that has gone out of control (with the exception of Noah’s family and some animals). The story taken on its own is a good one but, taken out of the context of the bigger story, our understanding is limited and the deeper meaning can be missed.
For this reason we can see that this story is about hope. It is a story about a God who refuses to give up on His beloved creation and provides an opportunity for salvation. It is a dramatic rescue mission carried out by a caring Creator. It is the intervention of a loving Father desperate to save His rebellious children. How do we know this? Because we have been reading from the beginning.
The Bible tells us that Noah was a righteous preacher (2 Peter 2:5) and that it took Noah a long time to build the ark. This shows us another characteristic of our wonderful God…He is patient and provides more than enough opportunity for His people to respond to His pleas…if they choose to.
Once again the choice that God has provided from the beginning presents itself. Will you trust Him? Will you believe? Will you come when He calls?
In the story of the flood, God intervenes. He takes the initiative to reach out and rescue a stubborn people. He not only takes the initiative but He also provides the way of salvation. Then He provides ample opportunity to respond…to accept His help…to grab onto His hand. Sound familiar? Do you see how this fits together?
“For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly…and God demonstrated His love for us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:6-8)
As we meditate on the sacrifice of Jesus, we can see the God of Genesis, once again, providing the way for His people. Jesus referred to Himself as the “door”…”the narrow gate”…”the Way”. The ark of Noah was an illustration of things to come. A greater rescue…once for all. Do you see it?
From the very beginning, God has been committed to rescuing you…He has not stopped pursuing you now. Today, in the flood of activities around you, will you take the opportunity that He offers you to come into the ark of His presence and experience His rescue?
This can be your story.