Farmer, Great That Desert, Rajasthan, India
Each person is wonderfully different, yet we are remarkably the same. From north to south and east to west, we act in surprisingly similar ways. From 2004 B.C. to 2004 A.D., human behavior has been amazingly consistent. The moment we open our eyes as infants, we begin studying our world. As we grow in our understanding of how the world is, we begin dreaming about how it could be and then work to unleash its potential. Under human hands a desert becomes a fertile field, a piece of marble becomes an intricately carved masterpiece, a handful of sand becomes a glass window, a tree becomes a magnificent ship. We are perpetually working with the earth’s elements—and transforming the world in the process.
What impels us? Why do we alone, of all earth’s creatures, do purposeful and creative work? Because God works, and we were made in His image. Had He chosen, He could have created the world in all its fullness in a split second. Instead, He crafted His creation over the course of six days, developing it and making it more glorious each day, pouring into it life, breath, wisdom, and beauty. Apart from His continuing care, nothing could exist—even now, our every breath is dependent upon Him. He needs nothing from us and we need everything from Him. Though He is the sovereign King of Creation, He is not ashamed to serve us. This king rules by serving.
Astonishingly, He entrusted His kingdom to two of His creatures—a man and a woman. As king and queen they were to rule over all the earth—the plants and trees, the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the cattle and everything that creeps on the earth. Their rule began in a garden, which they were to develop and cultivate (literally, to serve). Following God’s example, they were to exercise their dominion by making the world increasingly glorious each day—working, beautifying, and enjoying it. Through their service, the earth would reflect the glory of heaven. True kings are servant kings.