The Beginning

Genesis 1:1-2:3
The magnificent story of The Beginning revealed God's creativity, majesty, and love. Yet the most humbling, puzzling, and awe inspiring act took place when God breathed the breath of life into humanity.
God demonstrated power and love by creating. With only a spoken word God created everything around us. Then, with loving care, he formed Adam out of the ground.
With one decision, history began. Existence became measurable. Our of nothing came light. Our of light came day. Then came sky......and earth. And on this earth? A mighty hand went to work.
Canyons were carved. Oceans were dug. Mountains erupted out of flatlands. Stars were flung. A universe sparkled.....
Our sun became just one of millions. Our galaxy became just one of thousands. Planets invisibly tethered to suns roared through space at breakneck speeds. Stars blazed with heat that could melt our planet in seconds.
The hand behind it was mighty. He is mighty.
And with this might, he created. As naturally as a bird sings and a fish swims, he created. Just as an artist can't not paint and a runner can't not run, he couldn't not create. He was the Creator. Through and through, he was the Creator. A tireless dreamer and designer.
From the pallet of the Ageless Artist came inimitable splendors. Before there was a person to see it, his creation was pregnant with wonder....
Mundaneness found no home in his universe.....
Probe deep within him. Explore every corner. Search every angle. Love is all you find. Go to the beginning of every decision he has made and you'll find it. Go to the end of every story he has told and you'll see it.
LOVE.....
He created a paradise. A sinless sanctuary. A haven before fear. A home before there was a human dweller. No time. No death. No hurt. A gift built by God for his ultimate creation. And when he was through, he knew "it was very good."
But it wasn't enough.
His greatest work hadn't been completed. One final masterpiece was needed before he would stop.
Look to the canyons to see the Creator's splendor. touch the flowers and see his delicacy. Listen to the thunder and hear his power. but gaze on [humanity]---the zenith---and witness all three.....and more.
(From In The Eye of the Storm by Max Lucado)
Today you will encounter God's creation. When you see the beauty around you, let each detail remind you to lift your head in praise. Express your appreciation for God's creation. Encourage others to see the beauty of his creation.
Exploration..God the Creator
Nehemiah 9:6; Job 26:7; Psalm 102:25; Acts 14:15; Hebrews 11:3.

FRIENDS: people we need to be praying for
How about the men that have gone forward and are baptized from Virgil's ministry.
We pray that they will remain faithful and not give up their life in Christ when they face difficulties and undesirable circumstances or when things get too good and the world entices them to focus on material things and pleasures

FOOD
Divine Chicken with Green Beans
Prep Time: 5 Minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes Ready In: 20 Minutes
Yields: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic, or to taste
1/4 cup thinly sliced onion
12 ounces fresh or frozen green beans
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons heavy cream
DIRECTIONS:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned. Add garlic and onion, and reduce the heat to medium. Cook and stir just until fragrant. Mix in the green beans, cover and cook to your desired doneness, at least 5 minutes.
2. Uncover, and stir in the cream and cheese just until everything is coated. Remove from the heat and enjoy.

FUN
click on the link below and be prepared for a few chuckles
http://video.stumbleupon.com/#p=fq55ieixwd