Genesis 2 - Alone

When I read chapter 2 in Genesis, I was first struck by the intimacy of God breathing the breath of life into Adam. It was incredibly tender, a reflection of how much we matter. While the magnificence of the ocean and the brilliance of light was spoken into existence, only we were shared life in such a personal way.


But other writers, better writers, have covered the gift of life and what breath really symbolizes. So instead, I want to spend a few seconds on loneliness. Have you ever noticed that the very second thing God says about Adam is "It is not good for man to be alone." The very first is a warning that death will result if he eats from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. The second statement God makes is about being alone.


Sometimes, in this world, we get intoxicated by the concept of independance. We see "going it alone" as a sign of strength, a testament to our character. It's just me against the world, if I can make it there, I'll make it, anywhere.


But God thought loneliness was so important he mentioned it second. Maybe eating the apple wasn't the only way you could die. Maybe being alone is a different kind of death. Not that everyone has to be married. Not at all. I think there are lots of people God calls to remain single. But I think He always wants us in relationship. Whether that's in the context of marriage or a friendship with a neighbor or a brother.


The last thing I'll say is that it's kind of funny to me that in essence, God and Adam auditioned all the animals American Idol style to see if they could find a suitable helper for Adam. Verse 20 says, "But for Adam no suitable helper was found." What if kangaroos had been suitable? Am I the only one that thinks about things like that? What if, at the end of the day, God said, "You know what Adam, the kangaroo has a helpful pocket, this strong tail and can reach high places with his incredible ups. Let's make him your helper."


I'm weird for thinking that, right?