Daily Digest: Capstone Capsule

“The Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground” – Genesis 2:7a

Genesis depicts GOD as the FIRST PROFESSIONAL – Sculptor and Horticulturist: “And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being. The Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden, and there He put the man whom He had formed” (Gen.2: 7-8). God's creation of the world and humanity can be interpreted as professional acts. He is seen as a Sculptor (forming Adam from dust), a Horticulturist (planting the Garden of Eden), a Surgeon (performing the first surgery on Adam's rib), a Fashion designer (making skin tunics for Adam and Eve), and an Architect (designing and building the universe). These roles highlight diverse creative and functional skills.

The first five professions that God practiced emphasize both the aesthetic and practical aspects of His work:

Sculptor: God is the first Sculptor. He formed animals in different shapes and sizes and then man from the dust of the earth. The incredible thing is that He sculpts the external form (the outer covering – skin systems), the inner parts (skeletal structure and system of organs), and the inner spiritual essence of humans.  God is our physical and spiritual Sculptor.

Horticulturist: God is depicted as a Gardener, planting the Garden of Eden with every type of tree, both beautiful and good for food, and placing Adam there to tend it (vv. 8-9,15).

Surgeon: “And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and he slept; and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh in its place” (Gen. 2:21). This creation of Eve from Adam's rib is described as a surgical procedure. God does not hate science or medicine. He personally performed the first surgery, and was also the anaesthesiologist for this operation.

Fashion Designer: “For Adam and his wife, the Lord made tunics of skin, and clothed them” (Gen.3:21). Before the world knew what clothes were, God made the first pair for Adam and Eve. This was not only for protection from the elements but also served as their initial attire. This infers that the Lord is interested in clothing and how it looks.

Architect: God's creation of the heavens, the earth, the sun, moon, stars, dry land, and plants illustrates His role as the ultimate Architect of the Universe (Gen.1: 1-13). Other instances of God giving specific instructions about the design and dimensions of building projects were: For Noah’s Ark (Genesis 6 and 7) and for the Ark and Tabernacle (Exodus 25). God also gave instructions on the interior design of the tabernacle, which in effect means He was also the Interior Designer.

The skilful, functional, and purposeful nature of God's creation portrays Him as the Originator of many human professions. Following His successful Model will guarantee our own personal and professional Impact.